Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cavernous Spaces Crafted with Thermal Insulation and Glass Integration for Educational Engagement

Authors:
Facundo nicolás Manrriques, Federico Moglie, Yuliano Clementin
Cavernous Spaces Crafted with Thermal Insulation and Glass Integration for Educational Engagement

Project in-detail

Integrating thermal insulation and expansive glass within cavernous spaces, the design embodies a contextual response to the volcanic landscape while serving as an educational hub for understanding geological phenomena.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cavernous interior spaces mimic natural geological formations to enhance visitor immersion.
02
The design incorporates thermal insulation within its structural components for climate responsiveness.
03
Extensive use of glass allows natural light to penetrate deep into the exhibition areas.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles offer a sustainable material palette.
05
The bent A-frame structure reflects the dynamic topography of the surrounding landscape.
The Iceland Volcan Museum is an architectural project designed to educate visitors about volcanic activity while providing an engaging spatial experience. Situated in a landscape characterized by its volcanic features, this museum integrates thoughtfully with the surrounding environment. The architectural design leverages both functionality and aesthetics to create spaces that promote interaction and learning.

Functional Design and Spatial Organization
The museum's layout is strategically organized to enhance visitor experience. The entrance and reception area serve as the initial point of contact, featuring a coffee bar that invites visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape. This design choice creates a seamless transition into the core of the museum.

Exhibition spaces are thoughtfully arranged to encourage exploration and contemplation. These areas are designed to immerse visitors in educational content about volcanology through interactive displays and artifacts. The architectural design prioritizes flexibility, allowing for various exhibitions and events.

Outdoor spaces complement the interior experience. Courtyards and terraces provide areas for reflection and social interaction, reinforcing the museum's role as a community hub. This integration of indoor and outdoor environments fosters a connection between the museum and the natural landscape.

Unique Design Approach
One key aspect that distinguishes the Iceland Volcan Museum is its incorporation of the site’s topography. By situating the main volumes below sidewalk level, the design mimics natural geological formations, allowing visitors to experience a sense of entering a cavernous space. This approach not only enhances the thematic relation to volcanic structures but also offers practical benefits such as temperature regulation and natural lighting.

Material selection further enhances the project's uniqueness. The combination of concrete, glass, and wood serves both structural and aesthetic functions. Concrete provides durability and relates to the volcanic theme, while expansive glass panels ensure that natural light floods the interior, connecting visitors with the external environment. Wood accents add warmth, creating a comfortable atmosphere.

Architectural Integration
The architectural design emphasizes a harmonious relationship between the building and its surroundings. By using materials that resonate with the local context, the museum reflects the geological characteristics of Iceland. The careful placement of windows allows for dramatic views of the volcanic landscape, reinforcing the mission of the museum as an educational and experiential space.

In summary, the Iceland Volcan Museum stands as a well-conceived project that combines educational function with innovative architectural design. For a deeper exploration of the project, including architectural plans and sections, readers are encouraged to review the detailed presentation, which showcases the thoughtful architectural ideas that have gone into this compelling design.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy