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Translucent Glass Walls and Volcanic Concrete at Iceland's Tectonic Divide

Authors:
Erwin Riefkohl, Alexandra Betancourt, Mia Riefkohl
Translucent Glass Walls and Volcanic Concrete at Iceland's Tectonic Divide
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Constructed with volcanic concrete and translucent glass walls, the design integrates into Iceland's tectonic landscape, offering pathways and a retreat space for visitors drawn to this unique geological setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with prefabricated volcanic ash concrete that reflects local geology.
02
Features a modular thermally broken glass system for energy efficiency and light filtration.
03
Integrates flexible pathways designed to mimic the flow of Iceland's braided glacial rivers.
04
Includes a dedicated cube structure for visitor amenities like a café and dressing rooms.
05
Utilizes fiber optic cables in interior walls for enhanced illumination and atmosphere.

Diverging Paths is located within the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, at the tectonic divide between the North American and Eurasian Plates. Situated between the entrances of Karlagjá, the design intends to connect strongly with the geological forces that have shaped this area. The project integrates pathways and structures aimed at promoting exploration while complementing the natural surroundings.

Pathway Modules
The pathways are made of wood planks, organized into three primary modules. Each pathway has hinged vertical planks that act as flexible barriers, enabling them to adjust according to arch angles. This design mirrors the natural changes seen in Iceland's braided glacial rivers, allowing the pathways to take on different forms while extending across the landscape. Some planks are stacked to create staircases that lead up to Vogagjá, enhancing the interactive experience for visitors.

Architectural Form
The tower features a brutalist style that reflects the rugged beauty of the Icelandic terrain. It acts as a representation of the land's low-pitched rhythm, with the pathways flowing around it. This relationship between the tower and pathways emphasizes both vertical and horizontal movements, capturing the lively essence of the surroundings. Visitors can engage with the architecture from multiple viewpoints, which builds a deeper connection to the landscape.

Materiality and Structural Design
The tower is built with prefabricated volcanic ash concrete that aligns with the geological history of the region. Inside, the walls combine prefabricated concrete and translucent modular concrete, enhanced by fiber optic cables embedded within the blocks. This combination creates an atmosphere that reflects the natural elements outside. The modular thermally broken glass wall system allows light to filter through, featuring a gradient hue inspired by the local hot springs. The color deepens at the base and lightens towards the top, providing a visually engaging experience.

Visitor Amenities
A cube-like structure extends from the tower, specifically designed for visitors of Kvennagjá. It includes a café, bath, and dressing rooms, adding comfort while encouraging interaction with the landscape. This additional space enhances the visitor experience and creates a stronger connection to the site.

As visitors ascend the tower, they experience a dynamic interplay of light and shadow created by the gradient glass walls. The shifting hues change with movement, fostering a unique feeling of engagement with the environment.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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