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Reflecting Terrain with Scoria and Corten Steel in a Visitor Center Design

Author:
Dominik Budzisz
Reflecting Terrain with Scoria and Corten Steel in a Visitor Center Design
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Utilizing the rugged textures of Scoria and the industrial appeal of Corten steel, the design creates a functional visitor center that harmonizes with the unique geological features of the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a reflective mirror installation to engage visitors with the surrounding landscape.
02
Elevated design allows panoramic views of the Icelandic terrain from multiple points.
03
Incorporates local Scoria for aesthetic and contextual integration into the environment.
04
Features a roof path that directly connects visitors to the Eurasian tectonic plate.
05
Employs energy-efficient solar battery systems for sustainable operations.

The design of Buildings A and B is set in a unique landscape where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. The project focuses on enhancing the visitor experience while respecting the natural environment. Building A acts as a tower that connects various caves, facilitating easy movement for visitors. Building B functions as a bridge, allowing access between tectonic features. Overall, the design aims to create a strong relationship between people and the geological setting.

Building A

Building A features an angular and elevated form. This design allows for clear views of the surrounding landscape. Its architectural shape improves circulation, helping visitors navigate through the area while taking in the scenery. The building includes essential amenities such as a viewing platform, a roof garden, toilets, and an office with a ticket kiosk. A technical room is also part of the design, housing water harvesting tanks, pumps, filtration systems, a fuse box, and solar battery storage. The colors and textures of the materials are drawn from the local geology, particularly reflecting the characteristics of Igneous Rock and Scoria.

Building B

Building B serves as a link between the two tectonic plates. This structure provides a pathway for pedestrians, encouraging interaction with the natural features of the landscape. The roof path connects directly to the Eurasian plate, making the experience even more immersive. Key components of Building B include a cafe with a waiting area, various storage rooms, and a technical room that contains a boiler, pump, fuse boxes, and solar battery storage. This functional layout supports visitor comfort and operational needs.

Design Integration

The overall design strategy considers the natural landscape, allowing the buildings to rise and blend with the terrain. In Building B, the sloped interior creates an elevated space where visitors can enjoy views of the landscape before entering the caves. LED lights provide guidance, enhancing accessibility while connecting visitors to the outdoor environment. Walking paths that wind through the landscape emphasize the connection between the architecture and geology.

An interesting feature of Building A is the use of mirrors, which reflect the rugged terrain below, allowing visitors to engage with both the architecture and the natural beauty around them. This thoughtful detail invites an appreciation of the unique setting.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
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