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Circular Atrium with Glass Facade and Geothermal Design in Sustainable Volcanic Context

Author:
Naeun Kwon
Circular Atrium with Glass Facade and Geothermal Design in Sustainable Volcanic Context

Project in-detail

With a circular atrium designed to capture the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights, this sustainable structure utilizes a glass facade and geothermal methods to educate visitors about Iceland's unique volcanic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The museum incorporates a circular atrium that enhances natural light and views of the Northern Lights.
02
Geothermal methods are integrated into the design for sustainable energy use.
03
Charred wooden shingles are utilized to blend the structure with the volcanic landscape.
04
The structure features large glass panels for immersive environmental interaction.
05
Community spaces are designed for public engagement and educational activities.
The Volcano Museum is an architectural project located in Iceland, designed to highlight the country's unique geological features, focusing on volcanic activity and natural phenomena like the Northern Lights. This museum serves as an educational facility, providing a space for visitors to engage with Iceland's extraordinary landscape, emphasizing the relationship between geology and environmental awareness.

The architectural design incorporates several interconnected spaces, creating a cohesive experience that encourages exploration and interaction. The central feature is a circular atrium, representing the Earth's core, which serves as a focal point for exhibitions related to volcanism and geology. Surrounding this core are various thematic rooms that present a diverse range of educational content, ensuring that visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of the geological processes that shape Iceland.

Integration with the Natural Environment

A defining characteristic of the Volcano Museum is its seamless integration with the landscape. The use of large glass panels throughout the design allows natural light to penetrate the interior while providing unobstructed views of the surrounding scenery, including the region’s volcanic formations. This relationship fosters a deeper connection between visitors and the natural world, enhancing the educational experience. The careful placement of windows and outdoor viewing areas enables guests to witness the Northern Lights within the museum's confines, creating a unique experience that blurs the line between indoor and outdoor environments.

Sustainable Material Choices

Sustainability is a core theme in the design and material selection for the Volcano Museum. The project utilizes concrete for structural elements, ensuring durability to withstand the challenging Icelandic climate. Extensive use of glass facilitates natural lighting and emphasizes transparency, while wood elements provide a warm contrast that connects the building to traditional Icelandic construction methods. Additionally, green roofing supports local vegetation, further minimizing the project's ecological footprint. This thoughtful approach to materiality reflects contemporary architectural practices that prioritize environmental sensitivity.

The Volcano Museum exemplifies a meticulous blend of architectural design with educational objectives. It stands out from typical museum projects by prioritizing an immersive visitor experience that encourages engagement with both the content on display and the surrounding landscape. For a deeper understanding of this project, including architectural plans and sections, explore the detailed presentations showcasing the architectural designs and innovative ideas behind the Volcano Museum.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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