Ep 10. Ice World

Impossible Builds is a television series that showcases incredible engineering feats that have been achieved through the collaboration between designers, architects, and builders. In season 1, episode 10, titled "Ice World," the series explores the design and construction of a unique glass home situated in the midst of an alpine quartzite quarry in Aspen, Colorado.

Designed by architect Steve Novy, the Ice World home is a stunning piece of architecture that showcases the beauty of the surrounding natural landscape. The home features large glass panels that provide unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains, rocks, and wilderness. The glass also allows natural light to flood the living spaces, making it an ideal place to enjoy the stunning beauty of the area.

The episode begins with the designers and builders laying the foundation for the home, which is situated on an uneven, rocky terrain. The builders use advanced techniques to ensure that the foundation is both stable and secure, given the challenging conditions of the site.

As the construction progresses, the builders face several challenges with the walls of the home. The glass walls need to be sturdy enough to withstand the harsh weather conditions of the area, including heavy snowfall, high winds, and extreme temperatures. The builders overcome these challenges by using a unique triple-layer of glass panels, backed with a high-performance coating that helps insulate the home and protect it from the elements.

As the walls are installed, the focus moves to the intricate detailing of the home's interior. The Ice World home features a C-shaped design that allows the living area to open up completely. The living and dining areas are open-plan, while the bedrooms are situated on the lower level of the home. The interior features a minimalist design, with natural wood and stone finishes that complement the surrounding environment.

The episode also explores the home's heating system, which is a crucial aspect given the extreme cold temperatures of the area. The builders incorporate a geothermal heating system, which uses the natural heat of the earth to warm up the home. The system operates through a series of pipes that circulate water through the ground, where it's heated by the earth's natural warmth. The heated water is then pumped through the house, providing a sustainable and energy-efficient heating solution.

As the home nears completion, the builders face a final challenge in delivering the home's centerpiece- a large, suspended fireplace that hangs in the center of the living area. The fireplace is a significant engineering feat, given its size and weight, and the builders need to ensure that it's structurally secure and safe to use.

Overall, the Ice World home is a stunning achievement in engineering and design. Its unique location and innovative use of materials and building techniques make it a true masterpiece of modern architecture. The episode of Impossible Builds showcasing the creation of the Ice World home is a fascinating look at the process of taking a concept from design to reality, and the challenges faced along the way.