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Conical Roofs Crafted From Polycarbonate and Timber Panels Embrace Iceland’s Geological Heritage

Authors:
Tauseef Ahmad, Faisal Durrani
Conical Roofs Crafted From Polycarbonate and Timber Panels Embrace Iceland’s Geological Heritage

Project in-detail

Crafted with distinctive conical roofs of polycarbonate and timber, the museum seamlessly integrates geologic education with Iceland's volcanic landscape, creating an interactive platform for public learning.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from polycarbonate and timber, the conical roofs symbolize Iceland's volcanic landscape.
02
The central boulevard design reflects the tectonic rift between the North American and Eurasian plates.
03
A mix of natural materials enhances durability while integrating with the surrounding environment.
04
Exhibition spaces utilize dynamic lighting to create varying atmospheres influenced by the roof structure.
05
The museum serves as a community hub for educational programs related to geology and sustainability.
The Volcano Museum is an architectural project located in Iceland, designed to explore and educate visitors about the country's unique geological features, particularly its volcanic activity. The design reflects the dynamic relationship between the landscape and the built environment while housing exhibition spaces, educational facilities, and communal areas for the public.

The architectural concept emphasizes the tectonic dynamics between the North American and Eurasian plates. A central boulevard serves as a metaphorical rift, guiding visitors through the museum while providing a tangible connection to the geological themes represented. The spatial organization enhances the visitor experience by promoting exploration throughout the museum and fostering interaction among guests.

Unique Architectural Features

The design incorporates a distinctive roof structure composed of four conical forms, each symbolizing one of Iceland's prominent volcanoes: Eyjafjallajökull, Katla, Hekla, and Hvannadalshnjúkur. These conical roofs are not purely aesthetic; they create varying interior scales and light conditions, influencing the atmosphere of the exhibition spaces. This correlation between form and narrative is a key aspect of the design, allowing the museum to communicate its themes effectively.

The integration of natural materials, such as wooden facade panels and granite flooring, further connects the building with its surroundings. These materials align with traditional Icelandic architecture while providing durability and a natural warmth to the structure. The use of white polycarbonate panels in the roof allows diffused light to filter into the space, creating a lively yet controlled environment that enhances the exhibition experience.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The museum features a well-organized layout, with designated areas for exhibitions, educational programming, a café, and administrative offices. The central plaza provides an open space that enhances interaction and facilitates access to various sections of the museum. It connects the parking area with the museum entrance, emphasizing the importance of flow and accessibility in the design.

In addition to its educational function, the museum serves as a community hub, offering a venue for gatherings, workshops, and presentations related to geology and environmental science. This multifunctional aspect is a critical component of the project, aiming to deepen the public’s understanding of Iceland’s natural phenomena.

The Volcano Museum stands out among architectural designs by its thoughtful integration of geological concepts and visitor engagement strategies. The consideration of both form and function exemplifies a modern approach to museum design that prioritizes education while celebrating the unique characteristics of the Icelandic landscape.

For further exploration of the project's architectural plans, architectural sections, and design ideas, interested readers are encouraged to review the detailed presentations available. These elements provide deeper insights into the project's conception and execution, highlighting the thought processes that informed this architectural endeavor.
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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