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Circular Visitor Center Featuring Local Stone and Drotwood Amidst Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Yufan Jiang, Mengyao Chen
Circular Visitor Center Featuring Local Stone and Drotwood Amidst Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Hverfjall Volcano, the visitor center seamlessly integrates natural stone and locally sourced Drotwood into its circular design, serving as an educational and social hub for exploring the region's volcanic heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
The visitor center features two overlapping circular rings that facilitate movement and create intimate outdoor spaces.
02
Locally sourced Drotwood is used extensively in the roofing, enhancing the building's connection to the surrounding landscape.
03
An eco-friendly design incorporates solar panels and geothermal heating, utilizing the nearby volcanic activity for energy efficiency.
04
Natural stone from the immediate area is integrated into the structure, providing durability and cultural relevance.
05
The layout includes two inner courtyards, promoting natural light and fostering community interaction.
The Infinite Loop Visitor Center, located near Hverfjall Volcano in Northern Iceland, represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and landscape, designed to enhance the visitor experience while respecting the natural environment. This project serves as a hub for education and recreation, allowing visitors to engage with the geological history of the area and the cultural narratives that surround it.

At its core, the architecture of the Infinite Loop embodies a concept that emphasizes continuity and flow, reflected in its name and design. The structure is characterized by two interlocking rings, which not only form a visually appealing silhouette against the dramatic backdrop of the North Icelandic terrain but also facilitate the arrangement of spaces within. The visitor center comprises essential areas, including an exhibition hall dedicated to showcasing the volcanic activity of the region, a coffee shop that invites social interaction, and a theater for multimedia presentations about the site.

The layout has been strategically configured to foster movement and accessibility. Visitors are encouraged to navigate the building naturally, with pathways that guide them through varied experiences ranging from educational displays to quiet contemplation in communal spaces. The design includes two inner courtyards which enhance natural lighting and provide serene opportunities for outdoor relaxation. These courtyards are equipped with circular seating arrangements, promoting socialization and reflection amidst the impressive volcanic landscape.

Material selection plays a significant role in the project, emphasizing sustainability and context. The use of local stone connects the building to its geological surroundings, reinforcing a sense of place. Glazed insulated glass has been utilized extensively to maximize natural light while ensuring thermal efficiency, allowing for a comfortable indoor climate even in the unpredictable weather typical of Iceland. Wood, specifically Drotwood, serves as a prominent roofing material, introducing warmth to the structural design and harmonizing with the landscape. Concrete elements provide structural strength and durability necessary for withstand the natural elements of the region.

Moreover, sustainability paths are woven throughout the design process of the Infinite Loop Visitor Center. Solar panels integrated into the roof harness renewable energy, while the architecture is designed to utilize geothermal heating, taking advantage of the unique volcanic features of the area. This commitment to environmentally conscious design is apparent, as the building not only serves its function but does so without compromising its ecological footprint.

The architectural design of the Infinite Loop includes unique features that contribute to its role as a standout visitor destination. One of the most engaging aspects is how the architecture interacts with the dramatic Icelandic environment, making it a site for reflection and learning. Images of the building at night under the Northern Lights highlight the delicate relationship between human-made structures and natural phenomena, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages exploration.

This project serves a dual purpose - to educate the public about volcanic history while providing a space for leisure and community gathering. The thoughtful design not only meets practical needs but also resonates with deeper themes of connectivity between people, nature, and the surrounding landscape, setting a benchmark for future architectural endeavors in environmentally sensitive areas.

For further insight into this remarkable project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. The detailed visualizations and notes will offer a more comprehensive understanding of the concepts and functionalities embedded within the Infinite Loop Visitor Center.
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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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