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Spiral Tower with Lava Stone and Composite Wood Integration

Author:
Ari Bungers
Spiral Tower with Lava Stone and Composite Wood Integration
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The spiral tower, constructed with a combination of lava stone and composite wood, offers panoramic views while serving as a visitor centre adjacent to a cave, effectively blending functionality with environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
The roof features a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
02
A spiral viewing tower provides multiple vantage points of the surrounding landscape.
03
Composite wood is utilized for structural elements, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
04
The café offers seating at the base of the tower, promoting visitor interaction.
05
Parking and loading areas are designed for efficient access and traffic flow.

The visitor centre is located in proximity to a cave, designed to connect with the surrounding natural environment. The centre enhances the visitor experience by offering a range of amenities and features in a layout that promotes ease of movement. Its design emphasizes functionality alongside sustainability, creating an inviting space for exploration and relaxation.

Architecture Concept
The overall layout is structured with open pathways and designated viewing areas that encourage visitors to engage with the landscape. Each part of the visitor experience is considered, from the entrance to the varied amenities such as the café and restrooms. The inclusion of a meeting plaza facilitates social interactions, providing a space for groups to gather.

Building Structure
This design incorporates various building steps, including a basement with a central pole supporting a spiral structure. Premade step elements create a rhythm to the design, while cladding components like the roof and glass contribute to the centre's aesthetic. Carefully planned technical installations ensure that the structure functions well without compromising user experience.

Sustainability Features
An important aspect of the visitor centre is its focus on sustainability, highlighted by a rainwater collection system. This system captures rainfall from the roof, filtering it for storage and reuse. Additionally, energy is generated from vertical windmills nearby, underscoring a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental responsibility.

Materials and Design Details
Materials chosen for this project include composite wood with a white finish, clear glass, natural wood, and dark gray lava stone. Each plays a role in creating a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. The spiral viewing tower stands out, providing wide views of the surroundings. Café seating at its base allows visitors to relax while enjoying the scenery. The roof features lighting that improves visibility at night, offering a welcoming feel after sunset.

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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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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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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