Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Conical Observation Deck Overlooking Hverfjall Volcano

Authors:
Bogdan Bondarenko, Kristina Belikova, Oleksandr Lazurenko, Kostiantyn Bondarenko
Conical Observation Deck Overlooking Hverfjall Volcano

Project in-detail

Rising as a conical structure above an embankment, the design offers a circular observation deck that provides expansive views of Hverfjall Volcano while serving as a museum dedicated to the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rising conically to mimic the nearby Hverfjall Volcano.
02
First two levels are concealed behind an earth embankment.
03
Features a circular observation deck for panoramic volcano views.
04
Three distinct access routes enhance visitor flow and interaction.
05
Design evokes local mythology through its unique structural form.

The "Hell Frying Pan" project is located near the Krabla volcanic fissure, offering impressive views of the Hverfjall Volcano in Iceland. Serving as a museum, it combines exhibition spaces with an observation area that engages with the landscape. The design draws inspiration from the surrounding geological features, taking on a conical shape that reflects the form of the volcano and connects closely with its environment.

Form and Integration

The building's conical shape closely resembles the Hverfjall Volcano, creating a visual link between architecture and the landscape. The upper portion serves as a circular observation deck, giving visitors expansive views of the natural surroundings. The first two levels are designed to be unobtrusive, tucked behind an embankment. This choice helps the structure blend into its setting, minimizing its impact on the landscape.

Access and Flow

Visitors can enter the museum through three distinct pathways. An inclined ramp leads to the service entrance on the first floor, while a direct pathway goes through the exhibition area at ground level. Additionally, a staircase ascends to the observation deck, providing a smooth progression between spaces. These carefully planned routes improve visitor movement and enhance their connection with the stunning geological features nearby.

Functional Spaces

Various functional areas have been incorporated into the design, such as an exhibition hall, offices, pantry, kitchen, and dining area. Each space is logically arranged to serve the museum's needs while connecting with the landscape. Focusing on functionality ensures that activities flow smoothly without detracting from the architectural design.

The building’s shape resembles a pan resting over a volcano's mouth, suggesting connections to local myths and stories. This visual detail helps ground the design within the cultural context of the area. It adds depth to visitors' experiences, allowing them to engage with both the natural environment and the local 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