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Spiral Structure of Corrugated Metal and Timber Integrating Geothermal Sustainability Amidst Iceland's Natural Landscape

Authors:
Bogdan Shevchenko, Fabian Egle, Hannes Siefert
Spiral Structure of Corrugated Metal and Timber Integrating Geothermal Sustainability Amidst Iceland's Natural Landscape
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The spiral form of the tower, clad in durable corrugated metal and enhanced by geothermal heating, draws visitors into an immersive experience that blends seamlessly with Iceland's unique landscape while serving as a focal point for exploration and discovery.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower's spiral design allows for a gradual ascent, enhancing the visitor experience through varied perspectives of the landscape.
02
Constructed with durable corrugated metal, the tower’s exterior references the rugged Icelandic environment while ensuring longevity.
03
Geothermal heating is integrated into the visitor center, utilizing the site's natural resources for energy efficiency.
04
The visitor center incorporates large windows to maximize natural light and views, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
05
The unique placement of the service building minimizes its visual impact, maintaining the focus on the cave and tower elements.

The architectural project situated at the Grjótagjá Cave site in Iceland integrates human intervention within a unique geological landscape. This project represents an effort to enhance the visitor experience while showcasing the cave's natural beauty and geothermal features. The main components include the Iceland Cave Tower, a visitor center, and a service building, all thoughtfully designed to align with the ecological and geological context of the site.

The Iceland Cave Tower serves as a focal point, drawing visitors to the site while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The design features a spiral form, allowing visitors to ascend and experience the changing vistas. This visually compelling structure is constructed from durable red corrugated metal, a choice that reflects Iceland's natural environment while ensuring longevity against harsh weather conditions.

The visitor center is strategically positioned between the natural formations and the tower, functioning as a reception area that welcomes tourists. The design prioritizes large windows to maximize natural light and views of the landscape. The use of warm timber for its finishes adds a tactile quality to the interior, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. Additionally, the incorporation of geothermal heating exemplifies the project’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.

The service building supports the functionality of the site, housing necessary facilities while maintaining the architectural language established by other structures. Its thoughtful placement ensures that it integrates seamlessly into the overall design, ensuring that operational needs do not detract from the visitor experience.

Innovative design approaches set this project apart from traditional visitor centers in similar locations. The integration of the cave's geological features into the architectural layout allows for a unique relationship between the built environment and natural landscape. The emphasis on sustainability through the use of geothermal energy and local materials reflects an understanding of environmental stewardship. In addition, the design encourages exploration and discovery, inviting visitors to engage with both the architecture and the natural world.

In summary, this architectural project at Grjótagjá Cave distinguishes itself through its contextual sensitivity and innovative use of materials and design. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for further details.

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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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