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Concrete Structure Embracing Panoramic Views Within a Geological Landscape

Authors:
Gleb Goncharenko, Ksenia Zabardygina
Concrete Structure Embracing Panoramic Views Within a Geological Landscape

Project in-detail

With a concrete structure that integrates panoramic windows and a roof designed to harmonize with the surrounding terrain, the visitor center enhances the understanding of Dimmuborgir's geological features while providing a space for education and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
A single prominent facade features panoramic windows offering uninterrupted views of the lava fields.
02
The building's roof is designed to integrate with the landscape, enhancing visual continuity.
03
Concrete is chosen for its durability and compatibility with the rugged terrain.
04
The flow from educational exhibits to the cafe encourages visitor engagement with the environment.
05
Pathways guide visitors through a seamless transition between outdoor and indoor spaces.

The Iceland Black Lava Fields Visitor Center is a thoughtfully designed building located in the unique landscape of Dimmuborgir, known for its impressive lava formations. The center's main function is to inform visitors about the geological features of the area while also providing a space to enjoy the natural environment. The design concept connects the building to the landscape, allowing for an immersive experience that fosters a strong appreciation for the site’s beauty.

Building Configuration

The visitor center has a large front facade featuring panoramic windows. These windows offer clear views of the surrounding lava fields, inviting visitors to take in the scenery. The other facades are hidden within the terrain, enabling the structure to blend into its backdrop. This careful placement helps create a unified look that respects the landscape's ruggedness.

Access and Circulation

A clear pathway leads visitors from the parking area to the entrance and terrace of the building. This thoughtful design choice ensures an easy transition into the center. Once inside, guests are greeted by a corridor that hosts educational exhibitions about the region’s geology and culture. This space encourages a natural movement towards the cafe, where visitors can relax while enjoying views of the impressive landscape.

Material Selection

Concrete is the primary material used in the construction, chosen for its strength and compatibility with the volcanic surroundings. This choice supports the building's durability and ensures it complements the area's natural aesthetics. The roof is also designed to connect with the landscape, further enhancing the relationship between the structure and its environment.

Spatial Organization

The internal design of the visitor center prioritizes visitor engagement and efficient movement through the space. Carefully organized circulation paths promote interaction among different areas, allowing for a seamless exploration of the exhibits. Features like the cafe are well positioned, encouraging visitors to reflect on their experience while enjoying the landscape outside.

Attention to these details underscores the way the visitor center highlights its connection to the Dimmuborgir lava field, creating an opportunity for visitors to engage meaningfully with this remarkable environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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