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Basalt Stone and Polycarbonate Facade in a Geothermal Educational Center

Authors:
Giap Dao, Dat Phung, Tuan anh Ngo
Basalt Stone and Polycarbonate Facade in a Geothermal Educational Center

Project in-detail

Blending basalt stone with a polycarbonate facade, the center creates a harmonious dialogue with its volcanic landscape, serving as a dedicated space for education on geological phenomena.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a polycarbonate facade to enhance natural light and visibility of the landscape.
02
Incorporates locally sourced basalt stone to connect visually and materially with the volcanic environment.
03
Flexible gallery spaces allow for various educational programs and community events.
04
Design features a strategic airflow system that leverages geothermal energy for climate control.
05
Emphasizes minimalistic aesthetics, allowing the surrounding scenery to be the focal point.

The Myvatn Volcano Museum serves as an educational hub dedicated to the geological and volcanic history of the Myvatn region in Iceland. The project aims to provide visitors with insights into the diverse phenomena resulting from volcanic activity while fostering a connection between the built environment and the natural landscape. Designed with careful consideration to both cultural and environmental contexts, this museum stands as a representative structure of Iceland's geological narrative.

The architectural design incorporates a flow-oriented layout that encourages exploration and interaction with the exhibits. The building is strategically situated to optimize views of nearby volcanic formations, seamlessly integrating the structure with its environment. A polycarbonate facade allows natural light to permeate the interior while enabling glimpses of the natural landscape, fostering a continuous dialogue between the visitors and the surroundings. The use of basalt stone aligns the museum's material identity with the geological features it represents, creating a cohesive narrative that enhances visitor experience.

Thoughtful spatial organization delineates functional areas within the museum, with the ground level dedicated to galleries and communal spaces, such as a café and administrative offices. The secondary floors are anticipated to feature additional exhibition areas, granting flexibility for various programming and events. The circulation path is designed as a "Main Vent" that guides visitors through the exhibit spaces, ensuring accessibility and engagement while maintaining a coherent organizational structure.

One of the standout features of the Myvatn Volcano Museum is its emphasis on adaptive space functions. Rather than confining the building solely to exhibition purposes, the design accommodates educational programs, community events, and research activities. This multifunctionality enhances the museum's role as a gathering space while promoting a deeper understanding of Iceland's volcanic landscape.

In contrast to conventional museum designs focused solely on exhibition, this project engages visitors by creating opportunities for interaction with both the exhibits and the natural environment surrounding the museum. The minimalist aesthetic reinforces the focus on education and exploration, allowing the natural beauty of the nearby landscape to complement the architectural form.

For more in-depth insights into the Myvatn Volcano Museum, explore additional resources, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and the overall architectural design. These elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of the building’s technical and conceptual dimensions, enriching the appreciation of its unique architectural ideas.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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