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Biophilic Design With Cross-Laminated Timber And Geothermal Features Foster Connection In Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Patrick Danielson, Jeremy Upward
Biophilic Design With Cross-Laminated Timber And Geothermal Features Foster Connection In Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through the use of cross-laminated timber and geothermal energy, the museum seamlessly integrates into its volcanic landscape to foster community engagement and education about geological phenomena.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles that enhance weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates a geothermal heating system to maintain energy efficiency and showcase volcanic energy.
04
Emphasizes biophilic design principles, connecting visitors with the natural volcanic landscape.
05
Offers interactive educational spaces that foster community involvement in geological science.
The Volcano Museum represents a thoughtful synthesis of architecture and geology, designed to engage visitors in a dialogue about the natural forces that shape our world. This project serves not only as a repository for geological artifacts but also as a space for learning and community interaction, highlighting the intricate relationship between human experience and natural phenomena. Positioned within a context rich in volcanic history, the museum takes inspiration from its environment, aiming to weave the narrative of geological processes into the fabric of everyday life.

Functionally, the Volcano Museum is designed to cater to a broad range of activities, from educational exhibitions to community events. Its spaces are thoughtfully laid out to encourage exploration, with galleries dedicated to showcasing geological specimens, interactive displays, and educational workshops. The inclusion of a geothermal-heated pool offers a unique wellness experience, demonstrating the practical applications of volcanic energy in a manner that aligns with the museum’s overarching theme. This multifaceted approach ensures that the museum is not merely a place to observe but a space that fosters curiosity and engagement with the natural world.

A key aspect of the museum's design is its emphasis on materiality, reflecting the geological characteristics of the surrounding area. The use of turf panels blends the structure into the landscape, enhancing its organic presence. Carbon-sequestering cross-laminated timber is employed for its sustainable properties, while extensive glass elements are strategically placed to facilitate natural light penetration. This interplay between light and structure creates dynamic internal environments that change throughout the day, reflecting the cycles of nature that the museum aims to celebrate. Natural stone, reminiscent of volcanic formations, grounds the building visually and contextually, reinforcing its narrative of place.

The architectural design takes on unique forms that mimic the contours of a volcano, emphasizing the duality of creation and destruction inherent in volcanic activity. The sloping grassy surfaces invite visitors to walk over the building, encouraging a tactile relationship with the landscape. Inside, the arrangement of spaces is open and fluid, allowing for easy movement and interaction among visitors. Various community engagement areas, including a café and co-working zones, are integrated into the design, promoting social interaction and making the museum a vibrant part of the community.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the project, with design choices reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship. By harnessing geothermal energy and utilizing eco-friendly materials, the museum demonstrates the potential for architecture to respond positively to environmental challenges. The building is not only a learning center but a model for future sustainable projects, promoting greater awareness of ecological principles among its visitors.

Through its architectural plans and designs, the Volcano Museum stands as a testament to the intersection of science and community. It invites individuals to reflect on their relationship with the earth, encouraging an understanding of the powerful forces that shape our environment. This project provides opportunities for education, connection, and inspiration, rooted in the context of its volcanic landscape. For a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and the specific elements that define the Volcano Museum, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for detailed architectural sections and plans that showcase its intricate design and thoughtful planning.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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