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Suspended Aluminum Mirrors and Transparent Glass Illuminate Elevated Recreational Space

Suspended Aluminum Mirrors and Transparent Glass Illuminate Elevated Recreational Space
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Elevated 40 meters above the landscape, suspended aluminum mirrors and transparent glass panels create a dynamic interplay of natural light within a multifunctional recreational space designed to harmonize with Iceland's unique topography.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended aluminum mirrors are strategically positioned to capture and reflect sunlight throughout the structure.
02
The upper level is elevated 40 meters, enhancing views and solar access.
03
Transparent glass panels create a seamless connection between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape.
04
Steel cables support floating platforms, providing a unique visual and structural experience.
05
The design responds directly to Iceland's climatic challenges, promoting energy efficiency through natural light utilization.

# Analytical Report on the Theatre of the Sun Architectural Design Project

## Overview

The Theatre of the Sun is situated in Iceland, designed to address the region's challenging climatic conditions and variable sunlight availability, particularly during winter months. The project aims to enhance the experience of natural light within the structure while respecting the surrounding landscape. By strategically dividing the building into two distinct forms—one elevated on a ski hill and the other located at the valley floor—the design maximizes sunlight capture and fosters engagement with the unique attributes of the Icelandic environment.

## Spatial Configuration and Interaction

The design features a dual-structure approach that situates one building at an elevation of 40 meters, benefiting from unobstructed sunlight and expansive vistas towards Lake Mývatn. This elevation promotes a dynamic interaction between occupants and the landscape, emphasizing the relationship between the built environment and natural surroundings. The lower structure serves auxiliary functions, including storage and utility areas, maintaining a subtle profile that integrates seamlessly into the terrain.

## Material Palette and Light Management

### Innovative Use of Materials

- **Suspended Mirrors:** Polished aluminum mirrors are strategically positioned to capture sunlight from multiple angles, enhancing interior illumination and creating a dynamic interplay of shadows and light.

- **Steel Cable Platforms:** Platforms suspended by steel cables provide an airy, floating visual effect, echoing the ruggedness of the Icelandic landscape while ensuring structural integrity.

- **Glass Enclosure:** A convex hull of glass encases the building, allowing for optimal light penetration and a transparent interface with the environment. This design choice not only bolsters the building's aesthetics but also contributes to energy efficiency by maximizing natural light and reducing the need for artificial lighting.

The Theatre of the Sun exemplifies a careful consideration of both form and function, marrying light, material, and structural elements to create a building that resonates with the Icelandic landscape while addressing the challenges posed by its climate.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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.

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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