Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Conduits of Volcanic Ash Shaping a Visitor Center Experience

Authors:
Zofia Andrzejewska, Hubert Cebulski
Conduits of Volcanic Ash Shaping a Visitor Center Experience

Project in-detail

Constructed from bright monolithic concrete mixed with volcanic ash, the visitor center integrates geodetic forms that echo the surrounding landscape while providing an educational space focused on the dynamic processes of Iceland's geology.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using bright monolithic concrete that incorporates volcanic ash.
02
Central layout features three geodetic forms echoing the Hverfjall volcano.
03
Offers a café space that enhances the visitor experience through storytelling.
04
Integrates conduits symbolizing the geological process of liquid to solid transformation.
05
Designed to promote exploration of Iceland's dynamic volcanic landscape.

The Hverfjall Volcano Visitor Center is located in Iceland, a place known for its dramatic landscape and volcanic activity. The facility aims to educate visitors about the geology of the region while providing a space for reflection and engagement with nature. Designed with the Hverfjall volcano in mind, the building connects with its environment and underscores the natural processes that shape the land.

Architectural Concept

The design focuses on the idea of conduits, representing the flow of liquid earth transitioning to solid ground. This reflects the essential relationship between fire and ice, key elements in Iceland's geology. By drawing inspiration from volcanic cones, the structure visually resonates with the landscape. This connection emphasizes the significant geological forces at play within the region and enhances the educational mission of the center.

Materiality

Materials are chosen to strengthen the building’s connection to its volcanic surroundings. The exterior and interior are made from bright, monolithic concrete. This concrete is described as a refined mixture of volcanic ash and ice-water, evoking the materials found in the landscape. This choice effectively ties the building to the geological features it represents, making the structure more than just a visitor center.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of spaces within the center reflects the form of the Hverfjall volcano. Different volumes come together at a central point, creating a sense of focus. This layout encourages visitors to explore the various areas while experiencing the theme of volcanic activity. The design promotes movement and interaction, guiding people through the center in a way that deepens their understanding of the geological narrative.

Visitor Experience

The inclusion of a café within the visitor center enhances the overall experience. It provides a comfortable space for visitors to relax and take in the surroundings. With its focus on engaging visitors, the café invites moments of pause while connecting them to the geological themes presented throughout the center. This aspect of the design enriches the visitor's journey and complements their exploration of Iceland's unique volcanic heritage.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy