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Reflective Surfaces and Camouflaged Design in a Natural Landscape Setting

Authors:
Gyuhee Kim, Hyuckjin Shin
Reflective Surfaces and Camouflaged Design in a Natural Landscape Setting
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Mirrored surfaces reflect the surrounding Icelandic landscape while a camouflaged entrance invites exploration, seamlessly integrating visitor amenities such as a sauna, café, and public bath into the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mirrored surfaces enhance the structure's invisibility against the Icelandic landscape.
02
The design includes a unique camouflaged entrance that promotes exploration.
03
A looping walking path connects key geological features within the site.
04
Functional areas incorporate a sauna, café, and public bath in one cohesive design.
05
The structure utilizes three distinct layers to facilitate user engagement and interaction.

The reflection tower in Iceland is designed to blend with the natural landscape while serving various functions. Set in a dramatic setting, it offers amenities such as a sauna, waiting area, information center, public toilet, café, and bath. The overall design focuses on connecting with the surroundings, allowing visitors to engage with nature rather than being overwhelmed by a large structure.

HARMONIOUS STRUCTURE

The tower features two main parts: the vertical element that contains the sauna and the landscape component that houses all necessary visitor facilities. This arrangement shows a thoughtful connection between the structure and the natural environment, ensuring that visitors can enjoy both comfort and access to the outdoors.

WALKING PATH INTEGRATION

A key element of the design is the walking path that weaves through the site, forming a loop between the parking area and visitor center. It connects to notable geological features such as Kvennagjá, Karlagjá, and Vogagjá cave. This layout encourages exploration, while viewing platforms along the path provide spaces for rest and contemplation, allowing individuals to appreciate the landscape.

MATERIAL LAYERS

The design consists of three distinct layers. The outer layer is made of mirrors, which reflect the landscape and create a visual link to the environment. Below is a layer of concrete that provides strength and stability for the various services offered. The innermost layer uses opaque glass, inviting curiosity from visitors and drawing them into the experience of the space.

Each feature of the reflection tower carefully reinforces the goal of merging with the natural world, creating a tranquil setting that fosters a deeper connection to the beauty of the Icelandic landscape.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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