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Solar-Illuminated Paths and Structural Steel Towers in Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Alessio Comandini, Samuele Gori, Federica Marchi, Michele Sdruccioli
Solar-Illuminated Paths and Structural Steel Towers in Icelandic Landscape
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Solar panels atop steel pyramids illuminate pathways leading to caves, while a tower composed of structural steel and wooden elements integrates seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape, serving as a hub for exploration and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower's shape is designed to enhance natural light penetration into the interior.
02
Pyramids vary in height to provide functional seating and illumination.
03
Solar panels on the tallest pyramid contribute to off-grid energy needs.
04
The project employs a modular design, allowing for potential relocation.
05
Carvings in the tower create unique vantage points for users.

The design project is situated in a landscape that merges with its surroundings, fostering a close relationship between nature and structure. Designed as an "in situ" work, the tower modifies the landscape while also allowing itself to be shaped by the environment. Through various openings and carvings, users are encouraged to engage with the space, promoting exploration and interaction with both the building and the site.

Concept and Movement

Movement is a central theme in the design. The architecture supports a journey for users, facilitating a flow that connects the inside with the outside. The ability to disassemble and reassemble the structure means it can adapt to different contexts, offering flexibility in its use. As individuals navigate through the space, they discover different viewpoints, enhancing their experience of the environment.

Pyramids and Pathways

The pyramids serve as guiding elements along the path to the nearby caves. Designed at three heights—100 cm, 160 cm, and 210 cm—each pyramid has a specific function. The shortest is designed for seating, while the tallest incorporates solar panels for nighttime lighting. This combination of practicality and visual appeal strengthens the overall character of the design.

Energy and Sustainability

Energy considerations are important, with projected requirements at around 25,000 kWh each year from the nearby Bjarnarflag power station. This approach minimizes the impact on the environment while supporting the design's essential features. The thoughtful integration of energy sources reflects a commitment to ecological responsibility within the project.

Construction details are laid out clearly, starting with the assembly of a structural frame consisting of cylindrical beams, ball joints, and ground joints. This is followed by the installation of stairs and plasterboard walls for bathrooms and kitchen areas. Key components, such as H-section beams for holding glass, wooden beams, and laminated glass, contribute to the building's function and look. Paths created by steel pyramids guide visitors toward the caves, enhancing usability and the visual landscape experience.

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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
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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