Architecture project // Cavern Windows and Dark Concrete Harmonize with Volcanic Landscape

Cavern Windows and Dark Concrete Harmonize with Volcanic Landscape

Author:

Ulysse Géroux

The interplay of cavern windows and dark concrete allows Grýla’s House to seamlessly blend into the volcanic landscape, creating an intimate visitor center that engages with Icelandic myths and showcases the region's natural beauty.

5 key facts about this project

Grýla's House features walls that are entirely clad in dark projected concrete, enhancing its connection to the volcanic surroundings.

The design includes cavern-like windows that frame dynamic views of the changing landscape while providing a sense of security.

The entrance descends one meter below ground level, allowing for an immersive experience in the natural setting.

Poplar wood paneling inside creates a warm atmosphere, contrasting with the building's rugged exterior.

Curved walls guide visitors throughout the space, encouraging exploration and interaction with the environment.

General keywords

iceland visitor center lava fields dimmuborgir mvatn hverfjall curved walls natural landscape mythology concrete

Project specific keywords

dark concrete cavern windows poplar paneling earth immersion volcanic landscape

Grýla's House is located in the Lava Fields of Dimmuborgir, Iceland. This area has been shaped by volcanic activity and is rich in cultural stories. The building serves as a visitor center, allowing guests to connect with the natural landscape while reflecting the local mythology surrounding trolls and other beings. The design captures the essence of time in this region, where the sun and moon dictate the rhythms of daily life.

Form and Landscape Interaction

The structure consists of three curved walls that interact with nearby features such as Mývatn Lake, Hverfjall volcano, and the Dimmuborgir lava field. This form is not just for show; it deliberately engages with the environment, offering views that change throughout the day and across the seasons. The design aims to blend into the landscape, making it feel like a part of the earth rather than an external addition.

Entrance and Spatial Experience

Entering Grýla's House involves a descent into the ground, which enhances the visitor’s experience of nature. This downward movement creates a strong connection between the space inside and the wild surroundings. As people explore the building, they find a layout that flows smoothly from one area to another, allowing for both private moments and shared interactions.

Materiality and Interior Design

The exterior walls are finished with dark projected concrete, which helps the building blend with the deep hues of the landscape. This choice makes the structure appear as if it has always been part of the site. Inside, the walls feature poplar wood paneling, adding a soft warmth to the atmosphere. The simplicity of these materials creates a feeling of authenticity, encouraging people to engage with the environment.

Design Details and Engagement

Cavern-like windows are a defining feature, framing views of the beautiful landscape while keeping the interior secure. These openings invite natural light, creating a calming environment that reflects the tranquility of the area. The careful placement of windows allows light and shadow to interact in ways that enhance the experience within the building, reinforcing the connection to the outside world.