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Concrete Integration Within Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Marco Emanuele Biesuz, Humberto Menacho, Matias Dezi Pfannl
Concrete Integration Within Iceland's Volcanic Landscape
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Constructed from cast-in-place concrete, the museum harmonizes with Iceland's volcanic landscape to create multipurpose exhibition spaces that educate and engage visitors with the region's geological heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cast-in-place concrete to enhance durability against volcanic activity.
02
Features multipurpose rooms that can be combined for larger events, promoting community use.
03
Designed to align with the contours of the landscape, minimizing visual disruption.
04
Incorporates vertical circulation to improve accessibility across multiple levels.
05
Exhibition spaces emphasize the geological history of Iceland, offering educational experiences.

The Iceland Volcano Museum is designed to connect visitors with the unique environment of Iceland's volcanic landscape. The building focuses on integrating with its natural surroundings, serving as both a cultural space and an interactive exhibition venue. By reflecting the characteristics of the landscape, the museum invites visitors to experience the relationship between culture and nature.

Design Concept
The architectural design utilizes a volume formed by the arrangement of plates, which define both internal and external spaces. This setup allows visitors to engage with the museum in a way that reflects the dynamic qualities of the site. The internal layout encourages exploration, guiding individuals through a series of spaces that vary in experience and function.

Layout and Functionality
The museum is organized into distinct areas across two floors. On the ground floor, there is an entrance hall, a cafeteria, and several multipurpose rooms. Each room features its own entrance, enabling flexible usage for various events and activities. This arrangement strengthens the museum's role as a community space, catering to diverse visitor needs and experiences.

Vertical Circulation
Vertical circulation is thoughtfully incorporated to promote accessibility. The design ensures easy movement between levels, allowing people to traverse the building without barriers. The upper floors include additional facilities such as meeting rooms and co-working areas, which further enhance the museum's functionality and appeal.

Materiality
The materials chosen emphasize the connection to the landscape. Cast-in-place concrete is the primary material, providing structural strength and reflecting the textures of the surrounding area. Other materials used include welded wire reinforcing mesh and steel profile sheeting, both of which support the building's durability while maintaining visual harmony with its environment.

The design reflects a careful balance between architecture and its natural context. Features like large, open spaces combined with the material choices create a physical environment that celebrates Iceland's geological beauty while serving the community effectively.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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