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Curved Walkway in Carbonized Wood Reimagines Visitor Experience at a Volcanic Site

Authors:
Gabriella Szaniszló, Bettina Németh, Olivér Bartha, Bianka Hajdú
Curved Walkway in Carbonized Wood Reimagines Visitor Experience at a Volcanic Site
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A circular walkway of carbonized wood guides visitors through the geological narratives of Hverfjall Volcano, offering immersive learning experiences in a designed environment that seamlessly merges education with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Carbonized wood facade enhances durability and ecological integration.
02
Circular walkway guides visitors through the unique volcanic landscape.
03
Natural skylights illuminate the exhibition hall, enriching educational displays.
04
Coffee shop provides panoramic views of Hverfjall’s geology.
05
Mock-up of the volcano offers an interactive learning experience.

At Hverfjall Volcano, an architectural design integrates with the natural landscape in a thoughtful manner. A circular walkway provides a pathway for visitors, encouraging them to engage with the unique features of the volcanic site. The design concept emphasizes immersion and connection to nature, allowing guests to explore and learn about the geological importance of Hverfjall.

Exhibition Hall

The Exhibition Hall is a key component of the design, allowing natural light to fill the space through strategically placed skylights. This light enhances the educational exhibits related to the volcano's history. A model of Hverfjall is featured inside the hall to offer an interactive experience, helping visitors understand the geology and significance of the site.

Coffee Shop

Next to the Exhibition Hall, the Coffee Shop provides a place for visitors to relax and take a break. The design includes large glass corners that frame views of the landscape outside, creating a strong connection between indoor comfort and the outdoor environment. This unique perspective invites visitors to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds them while they unwind.

Materiality and Light

For the facade, carbonized wood has been selected, valued for its durability and visual harmony with the volcanic surroundings. This material choice allows the building to blend into its natural context, supporting both form and function. Inside, a round lighting feature plays an important role in shaping the atmosphere. It casts shadows and patterns that enhance the spatial experience, making the environment feel dynamic and engaging.

The design promotes movement and interaction throughout the space. Pathways lead visitors from one area to another, connecting educational exhibits and relaxation spots. Each element is intentionally designed to create a strong relationship between the built environment and the volcanic landscape. The curvature of the walkway, the choice of materials, and the arrangement of functional areas work together to create a cohesive experience for all who visit.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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