Building on the Edge

A group of architecture students embark on an epic adventure when they set out to design and build a research station on one of the least hospitable places on the planet, Antarctica. Over two years, a group of graduate students from CU Denver and their professor, Rick Sommerfeld, embarked on a journey that tested their skills, endurance and teamwork, culminating in the completion of four cutting-edge structures that would support NOAA scientists studying seals and penguins. The juxtaposition of the fragile beauty and the unforgiving conditions of Antarctica creates an inspiring and visually stunning story. These students push the boundaries of design, sustainability and construction in an environment where every material choice and structural decision can mean the difference between success and failure.