Architecture project // Cave-Like Structure With Timber Framework Embedded in Scenic Landscape

Cave-Like Structure With Timber Framework Embedded in Scenic Landscape

Authors:

Sigrid Enzinger, Korbinian Enzinger

The cave-like entrance, constructed with closed concrete walls and framed by timber, leads visitors on a circular pathway to an observation point that offers views of the surrounding landscape while providing educational insights about the area.

5 key facts about this project

The entrance features closed concrete walls that create a cave-like sensation.

A circular pathway guides visitors throughout the center, enhancing engagement with the landscape.

Timber framework supports large openings, providing ample natural light and views.

Observation points are accessible via both interior and exterior routes, ensuring usability year-round.

Informative signage educates visitors on local geography and history, fostering connections to the site.

General keywords

iceland visitor center observation point lake volcano education accessibility natural scenic information

Project specific keywords

timber concrete cave-like circular pathway educational signage

Rúsínan Í Pylsuendanum is situated close to Lake Mývatn and the Hverfjall volcano. It features a design that enhances the visitor experience through a carefully planned journey. The concept centers on connecting people with the surrounding landscape while offering educational insights about the region's natural and historical significance.

Design Concept and Layout

The layout comprises a circular path leading from the entrance to a central restaurant. This journey is designed with a gentle incline, allowing for ease of access for everyone, including families, older adults, and people with disabilities. This gradual ascent encourages visitors to explore while appreciating the beauty of the natural environment.

Educational Integration

Educational displays play a vital role in enriching the visitor experience. Signage is positioned throughout the path, informing guests about Lake Mývatn's geographical features, local history, and nearby attractions. This thoughtful integration helps visitors connect what they learn with what they see, deepening their understanding of the area.

Structural and Material Considerations

At the base, closed concrete walls create a cave-like entrance. This design offers a practical solution for durability and enhances the building's connection to the landscape. Above, a timber framework supports large openings, allowing abundant natural light and views. The openings bring the outside into the interior space, fostering a sense of unity with the surrounding environment.

Observation Points and Accessibility

Multiple observation points, especially on the rooftop, provide expansive views and an opportunity to engage fully with the landscape. Visitors can access these areas via internal routes from the restaurant and an external walkway, ensuring that the rooftop can be enjoyed even when the main visitor center is not open. This attention to accessibility reflects the design's commitment to inviting all visitors to experience the landscape.

The architecture encourages exploration, guiding visitors through a space that highlights the beauty of the surroundings while enabling an observational experience that feels integrated with nature.