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Black Stone and Natural Wool Structure Embracing Geological Narratives

Author:
Matteo Rossetti
Black Stone and Natural Wool Structure Embracing Geological Narratives
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Constructed with black stone and natural wool insulation, the museum integrates a circular form that captures panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape while serving as an educational facility focused on geological history.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built with locally sourced black stone, the museum reflects the geological history of Iceland.
02
Natural wool insulation enhances sustainability and aligns with local building traditions.
03
The circular design promotes visitor engagement and maximizes natural light.
04
Notches on the roof indicate prominent geological landmarks in the surrounding landscape.
05
A multipurpose room features a central void that allows natural light to penetrate the heart of the building.

The Iceland Volcano Museum is located in the Myvatn area of Iceland, a region defined by its unique volcanic landscape. The museum plays an educational role, allowing visitors to connect with the geological history of the area and its natural features. The design is centered around a circular form that reflects the ancient forces that shaped this land, creating a structure that fits well into its environment.

External Aesthetics
The museum features a solid curved wall made from black local stone, a choice that captures the essence of Iceland's rugged landscape. This durable exterior is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, seismic events, and possible lava flows typical of the region. The overall appearance evokes the image of a lighthouse standing firm against nature, symbolizing resilience in an unforgiving setting.

Interior Organization
Inside, the building is arranged around a circular corridor that encircles a central dome. This design encourages exploration and movement. Visitors enter a multipurpose room that benefits from natural light coming through a circular opening in the roof. This flooding of light adds a vibrant quality to the space and helps to connect the interior with the outside world.

Vertical Circulation
The first floor takes visitors to a wind-protected circular court, an area with ample natural light that serves as a central point. Visitors are invited to move up a gentle slope leading to the top of the museum. From this elevated position, panoramic views open up, showcasing significant geological features such as the Dimmuborgir rock formations and Hverfjall crater. The wide view narrows the gap between the visitor and the landscape, making the geological history vivid and engaging.

Materiality
The choice of materials is an important aspect of the overall design. Insulation made from Icelandic natural wool reflects regional building traditions and a focus on sustainability. Precast black concrete elements are used throughout, combining modern techniques with traditional building forms. Power floated concrete surfaces enhance durability and maintain visual consistency in the museum's interior.

The careful design includes notches on the roof that act as guides to major local sites. This feature offers a tactile map of the surrounding landscape, inviting visitors to explore and understand the rich geological narrative of the area.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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