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Crater Atrium with Reflective Glass in Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Kinga Gawlik, Piotr Rajewski
Crater Atrium with Reflective Glass in Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

The design incorporates a central atrium resembling a volcanic crater and features a glass wall that reflects its dramatic surroundings, creating an engaging environment for exploring the interplay between geological phenomena and space exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
The central atrium mimics the shape of a volcanic crater to enhance the visitor experience.
02
Exhibition areas include a dedicated "lava room" that simulates the appearance of molten lava.
03
A glass wall reflects the surrounding landscape, creating visual connections with nature.
04
Accessibility features include multiple elevators and centralized pathways for easy navigation.
05
The design integrates educational spaces focused on both volcanology and astronomy.

The Iceland Volcano Museum is designed to explore the connection between geology and space exploration. It is located in a volcanic landscape where visitors can learn about natural forces that shape the region. The design concept draws directly from the forms of volcanoes, incorporating a circular layout that integrates with the unique surroundings while highlighting the geological characteristics of Iceland.

Architectural Concept
The layout features a layered structure that extends partially underground, echoing the forms found in volcanic environments. A central atrium resembles a volcanic crater, providing shelter from strong winds while offering expansive views of the night sky. This design element enhances the experience for visitors, connecting them to themes of both volcanic activity and celestial exploration.

Functionality and Layout
Multiple levels make up the museum, with exhibition halls situated on the first floor and office spaces on the ground floor. This arrangement encourages interaction, allowing for educational activities focused on the relationships between volcanoes and space. A notable feature is the "lava room," designed to mimic the appearance and warmth of flowing lava with special lighting techniques, creating a captivating environment for exploration.

Accessibility and Safety
Consideration for accessibility is evident in the design, with numerous elevators and clearly defined vertical pathways to ensure visitors can navigate the space easily. Two escape routes within the inner ring of the building enhance safety while reinforcing the museum’s commitment to being user-friendly for all visitors.

The glass wall of the museum reflects the surrounding landscape, inviting natural light to fill the interior. This thoughtful design choice not only enhances the visitor experience but also establishes a connection between the building and the remarkable volcanic environment outside. The interplay of transparency and reflection creates a dialogue between the museum and its landscape, enriching the overall atmosphere.

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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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