Architecture project // Central Shaft and Glass Curtain Capture Views of a Volcanic Landscape

Central Shaft and Glass Curtain Capture Views of a Volcanic Landscape

Authors:

Eytan Kaufman, Chun Wang

A central shaft and large glass curtain wall establish a direct connection with the Hverfjall volcano, while the design integrates spatial qualities of lava tunnels, creating a museum that enhances the visitor experience in Iceland's unique volcanic landscape.

5 key facts about this project

The design incorporates a central shaft that functions as both a drainage and air vent, resembling a lava tunnel.

Large glass curtain walls provide uninterrupted views of the Hverfjall volcano, enhancing the visitor experience.

Structural fins shield the pathway to the roof and create a sculptural element, linking the building to its surroundings.

The layout maximizes natural light, particularly in the office spaces on the third floor.

Three distinct levels are dedicated to visitor services, exhibition areas, and staff offices, ensuring functional versatility.

General keywords

iceland museum hverfjall wilderness exhibition light volcano panorama visitor landscape

Project specific keywords

central shaft glass curtain lava tunnel structural fins natural light

The Crater of Light is located in the vast wilderness of Iceland, designed to connect closely with its volcanic setting. It functions as a museum dedicated to the nearby Hverfjall volcano. Instead of presenting a traditional architectural form, the design seeks to create an experience that reflects and celebrates the surrounding landscape, offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with nature.

Spatial Organization

The structure consists of three distinct levels, each with its own function. The first floor includes a reception area, a café, and storage. These spaces provide essential services to visitors, ensuring a welcoming environment from the outset. The second floor features the main exhibition space, designed to showcase artworks and educational materials effectively. Finally, the third floor houses office spaces oriented to maximize natural light, creating a bright atmosphere for the staff.

Lighting Dynamics

Light plays a crucial role in the design. Given that daylight is limited during the winter months in Iceland, the building incorporates large windows to bring natural light indoors. A prominent glass curtain wall on the second floor offers breathtaking views of Hverfjall, allowing visitors to feel connected to the landscape outside. This feature does more than just illuminate the space; it acts as a living frame for the mountain, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor experiences.

Structural Elements

Structural "fins" line the pathway leading to the roof. These elements not only serve an important function but also add to the overall aesthetic of the building. They protect the structure from harsh weather while creating a visual connection to the geological forms surrounding it. The fins create a sense of separation from the landscape while simultaneously inviting visitors to engage with its beauty.

A central shaft in the museum functions as a drainage and air vent, reminiscent of lava tunnels found in the region. This aspect of the design links the built environment with the geological features that characterize Iceland. The result is a museum that not only showcases cultural significance but also draws visitors into a deeper appreciation of the natural world around them.