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Turf-Insulated Structure Integrating Geothermal Principles with Concrete and Steel Design for Visitor Experience

Turf-Insulated Structure Integrating Geothermal Principles with Concrete and Steel Design for Visitor Experience
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Turf insulation and a seamless integration of concrete and steel create a structurally efficient facility designed to enhance visitor interaction with Iceland's geothermal landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Turf insulation reflects traditional Icelandic building techniques while enhancing thermal efficiency.
02
The bent A-frame design maximizes structural integrity and snow load management.
03
Extensive glazing creates a seamless connection between indoor spaces and the surrounding landscape.
04
Concrete walls offer thermal mass benefits, absorbing heat for energy efficiency.
05
Strategic location prioritizes panoramic views of the geothermal terrain.

### Overview

Located in Iceland, the architectural project emphasizes a sensitive integration with the region's striking geological features and geothermal activity. The design combines modern architectural principles with traditional Icelandic building methods, aiming to enhance user experience while providing a refuge amid the harsh climate of the landscape.

### Form and Spatial Strategy

The building's organic shape reflects the contours of the surrounding terrain, employing an elongated and undulating layout that enhances its contextual presence. This design allows for effective snow load management and rainwater drainage through strategically sloped roof angles. Internally, the open floor plan prioritizes social interaction and accessibility. Key functional areas include a refreshment station, restrooms, storage for equipment, and viewing decks which offer expansive views of the dramatic scenery, thereby fostering a strong connection between users and the environment.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

The material selection emphasizes sustainability and thermal efficiency, incorporating concrete for its heat-absorbing qualities and turf insulation, reminiscent of historical Icelandic practices. Steel decking provides structural support while enhancing aesthetic integrity. The project's construction reflects a commitment to environmental consciousness, with careful attention to solar orientation optimizing natural lighting and passive solar heating, aligning with the sustainability goals of the design. By referencing traditional building techniques, the project not only honors Icelandic cultural heritage but also creates a functional space with modern applicability in extreme climatic conditions.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 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.

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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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