Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Cultural Museum Featuring Living Walls and Glass Transparency in a Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Sara Khair
Cultural Museum Featuring Living Walls and Glass Transparency in a Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled within Iceland's dramatic volcanic terrain, this cultural museum integrates living walls and expansive glass panels to create a harmonious dialogue between its educational exhibits and the stunning natural landscape that surrounds it.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The museum’s design incorporates a bent A-frame structure, allowing for optimal natural light while enhancing structural stability in a seismic region.
02
Living walls are integrated into the facade, promoting biodiversity and acting as a natural insulation layer that reduces energy consumption.
03
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels, the building offers a renewable approach to material sourcing, showcasing sustainable practices.
04
Charred wooden shingles are employed on the roof, providing a fire-resistant feature as well as a unique texture that complements the volcanic landscape.
05
The museum features interactive displays that utilize augmented reality to engage visitors with the geological history of the Myvatn region.
The project under consideration represents a contemporary museum designed to integrate seamlessly with its unique surroundings in the Myvatn region of Iceland. This architectural endeavor focuses on celebrating the area's natural beauty, characterized by volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and diverse ecosystems. The museum's primary function is to serve as an educational and cultural hub, providing visitors with insights into the ecological and geological significance of Myvatn while fostering appreciation for the rich natural resources of Iceland.

The building layout is carefully articulated to facilitate an intuitive flow of movement for visitors, guiding them through various exhibits and experiences that reflect the themes of nature and preservation. The design incorporates public spaces that encourage interaction and participation, enhancing the overall visitor experience. The architectural design prioritizes not only functionality but also a deep respect for the environment, creating spaces that invite exploration and contemplation of the natural surroundings.

One of the most notable aspects of this project is its commitment to sustainability and ecological sensitivity. The facade is composed of cubical elements that harmonize with the rugged terrain, utilizing materials such as concrete and glass that not only add structural integrity but also offer visual connectivity to the outdoor landscape. Glass panels are thoughtfully integrated to provide unobstructed views of the breathtaking vistas, allowing the museum to serve as a transparent medium through which visitors engage with the landscape.

Additionally, living walls made of natural facade panels contribute to the ecological goals of the project, creating green spaces that promote biodiversity and foster a habitat for local flora and fauna. This innovative use of materials reflects a modern approach to architecture, emphasizing a balance between built environments and natural ecosystems while encouraging visitors to reflect on the role of architecture in environmental stewardship.

The green roof serves as another pivotal element, further merging the museum with the landscape. It not only facilitates energy efficiency but also offers an alternative viewpoint for visitors, creating spaces for gathering and reflection amidst the natural beauty. This approach reinforces the project’s intent to provide educational experiences, as visitors can engage with the surrounding topography from a unique vantage point.

The architectural design also showcases the influence of local geological features, linking the internal experiences of the museum to the external environment. Architectural sections and plans reveal the thoughtful arrangement of exhibit spaces that mirror the natural forms found in the Myvatn region. Each area within the museum is designed to offer a sensory experience, allowing visitors to feel a connection to the environment of Iceland throughout their journey within the building.

This project stands as a testament to contemporary architectural practices that prioritize sustainability while creating community-focused spaces. Its commitment to educational goals and public engagement contributes positively to the cultural landscape of Myvatn, enhancing the area as a destination for both tourism and local residents.

For those interested in exploring the architectural nuances of the "Cubic Earth" museum further, it is encouraged to review the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs that offer deeper insights into the innovative ideas that shaped this project. Engage with the inspiring elements of this architectural endeavor to appreciate how it meaningfully interacts with the landscape of Myvatn.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 16544 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