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Charred Wooden Shingles and Angular Forms Embrace Volcanic Landscapes in Visitor Center Design

Author:
Yi heng Lim
Charred Wooden Shingles and Angular Forms Embrace Volcanic Landscapes in Visitor Center Design

Project in-detail

With angular forms that reflect the volcanic landscape and charred wooden shingles that blend harmoniously with the environment, the visitor center invites exploration and education about Iceland's geological wonders.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features angular forms that mirror the geological characteristics of the Hverfjall Volcano.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for a durable, fire-resistant exterior that blends with the volcanic landscape.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Designed with multiple observation decks to enhance visitor engagement with the surrounding environment.
05
Includes educational exhibits that emphasize the natural history and ecology of the area.
The architectural design project located near the Hverfjall Volcano in Iceland embodies a profound engagement with the landscape and serves as a thoughtful reflection on the relationship between humans and their environment. This project is a unique endeavor that combines educational opportunity with an immersive experience in nature, rooted in a concept that reverberates with the themes of geological processes and ecological values.

At the core of this architectural project is its function as an observation and visitor center. It is designed to facilitate learning about volcanic activity while providing visitors with a space to engage with the striking environment. The building's layout is strategically organized to guide guests seamlessly through various viewpoints and learning stations, ensuring that each visitor can fully appreciate the geological intricacies of the Hverfjall Volcano and its vicinity.

The design reflects a commitment to education and awareness, characterized by its distinct architectural form inspired by the contours and configurations of various volcanic types. Angular elements evoke the multiple characteristics of volcanic structures, serving both aesthetic and functional purposes. These design choices not only create an interesting visual narrative but also harmonize with the surrounding geological context. By facilitating an experiential learning journey, the architecture fosters a deeper connection between visitors and the natural world.

Materials play an important role in this project, underscoring its environmental sensitivity. The primary materials include timber, used for structural elements and the roof, as well as expansive glass surfaces that allow for natural light to flood the interior. The color palette of darker exterior finishes juxtaposed with lighter timber interiors creates a warm, inviting space that resonates with the textures of the volcanic earth. The careful selection of materials reflects an understanding of both sustainability and local vernacular architecture, emphasizing a commitment to minimize ecological disturbance while integrating harmoniously with the landscape.

Key components of the design include well-positioned observation decks that offer unobstructed views of the volcanic landscape, enhancing the visitor experience by inviting contemplation and appreciation of the natural surroundings. The visitor center, which houses exhibition spaces and resting areas, functions as both an educational resource and a community gathering point. The design encourages movement and exploration throughout the site, with circulation paths that promote a natural flow from one area to another and a transition from structured spaces to the open outdoor environment.

What sets this architectural project apart is its innovative approach to design. It does not merely stand as a structure within the landscape; it actively engages with its setting and invites interaction. The emphasis on visitor education creates a space where knowledge about volcanic properties is disseminated in an engaging manner. The architecture functions not only as a backdrop but as an essential component of the educational experience, drawing attention to the unique geological features that characterize the area.

Ultimately, this design invites deeper exploration of the project and its architectural details. By reviewing elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, readers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the underlying ideas and the intentions that shaped this project. The careful integration of educational purpose, environmental consciousness, and architectural integrity positions this project as a meaningful contribution to both the landscape and the architectural discourse surrounding site-sensitive design. It encourages the reader to appreciate not just the architecture itself but also the larger context it inhabits, urging a closer examination of how built environments can harmonize with and enhance natural landscapes.
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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
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