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Concrete Volumes Embracing Nature with Laminated Glass Views

Authors:
Camila ivonne Godoy valdenegro, Laura Diaz
Concrete Volumes Embracing Nature with Laminated Glass Views

Project in-detail

Semi-buried concrete volumes, defined by sloping roofs that echo the natural terrain, create a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape while serving as an educational museum focused on the region's geological features.
5 key facts about this project
01
Semi-buried structure minimizes visual impact on the landscape.
02
Three distinct volumes enhance functional flexibility and visitor experience.
03
Strategically placed windows maximize natural light throughout the interior.
04
Design incorporates sloping roofs that mirror the surrounding topography.
05
Focus on geological education highlights the region's volcanic features.

The “Three Cubes Museum The Volcano” is located near Lake Myvatn and the Hverfjall volcano, designed to connect visitors with the striking landscape. It operates as an educational facility, inviting people to learn about the geological features of the area. With a design that respects the environment, the museum carefully organizes its spaces to enhance the experience of being in such a significant natural setting.

Structure and Volume

The museum features three separate volumes, each serving a different purpose. This arrangement allows for a flexible interaction with the landscape as visitors move through the spaces. The Exhibition Hall is the tallest of the three, providing a view of the volcano and becoming a central point for understanding the region's geological history.

Central Courtyard and Spatial Layout

A central courtyard forms the heart of the museum. It acts as both a gathering place and an area to direct visitors to various parts of the building. The layout includes essential spaces such as a cafeteria, offices, meeting rooms, and an information point. Each area has been designed for easy access, encouraging visitors to explore the museum and learn about the local environment.

Natural Light and Materiality

Natural light is an important feature within the museum, enhancing the overall atmosphere. Large windows are strategically placed to bring illumination deep inside the building, helping to connect indoor spaces with the outside world. Concrete is the main material used for construction, contributing a solid and robust quality. Laminated glass is also used, allowing for clear views of the surrounding landscape from inside.

The roofs of the building’s volumes are designed to reflect the local terrain. They slope gently, mirroring the shapes found in nature. This design choice not only integrates the structure with the landscape but also reinforces the museum’s purpose of celebrating the geological features of the area, creating a deeper appreciation for the natural 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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