Architecture

Building the Impossible

Elemental exists because architecture makes it possible.

Every edition begins with a blank site.

Within weeks, architects, engineers, artists and builders transform snow and ice into a temporary city unlike anything found anywhere else in North America.

Each structure is designed exclusively for that year's edition. When Elemental closes, the city disappears. The following year an entirely new world is created.

Featured Architecture

The Cathedral

The iconic centerpiece
A monumental ice structure hosting fashion, ceremonies and headline performances

Ember Pavilion

Fire architecture
Outdoor gathering spaces
Open flame experiences

Halo Walk

Interactive light architecture
Projection experiences
Night installations

Ice Gallery

Large-scale sculpture exhibition

Reflection Garden

Quiet contemplative spaces
Art installations
Photography

Architectural Tours

Daily guided tours with architects and engineers explaining how Elemental was designed and built

Architecture Partners
Structural EngineeringLightingConstructionMaterialsInnovationUniversitiesResearch