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Curvilinear Structure Featuring Natural Stone and Concrete in Harmony With Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Anna Nakajima, Akane Takahashi, Katsuyuki Ito
Curvilinear Structure Featuring Natural Stone and Concrete in Harmony With Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Embodying the rugged beauty of Iceland's landscape, the curvilinear structure utilizes natural stone and concrete to create a seamless connection between interior spaces and the surrounding environment, serving as a versatile museum that fosters community engagement and cultural exchange.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features a curvilinear form that mimics the natural topography of Iceland, enhancing site integration.
02
Natural stone and concrete are utilized to create a robust exterior that withstands the local climate while blending into the landscape.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for interior spaces, providing warmth and sustainability while supporting a modern aesthetic.
04
The museum includes flexible exhibition areas that allow for both indoor and outdoor displays, promoting interaction with nature.
05
Charred wooden shingles are used on roofing, offering both an aesthetic appeal and fire-resistance, rooted in traditional Icelandic building practices.
The architectural project in focus is the Hecomi Museum, situated in the ethereal landscapes of Iceland. It represents a thoughtful intersection of contemporary design and the traditional essence of the local environment. The concept behind Hecomi is deeply rooted in its unique geographical context and cultural significance, fostering a space dedicated to gathering, learning, and experiencing art in harmony with nature.

Functionally, the Hecomi Museum serves as a gathering point for locals and visitors alike, offering a place for exhibition, education, and community engagement. Its layout is meticulously designed to promote an intuitive flow between different spaces, allowing visitors to navigate the museum with ease while engaging with the diverse offerings within. The central element of the design is Hecomi itself – a core circular space where various exhibitions and activities converge, symbolizing the collective experience of art and nature.

Upon entering the museum, visitors are welcomed by an entrance terrace that showcases panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This not only acts as a physical threshold but also as a visual invitation to the natural beauty that frames the museum. The overall spatial organization is characterized by interconnected exhibition areas that celebrate Iceland’s topographical features. Additionally, the design pays homage to the contours of the land, allowing the structure to rise and fall, echoing the undulating landscape around it.

The use of materials in the Hecomi Museum is another critical element contributing to its architectural identity. Concrete structures form the backbone of the museum, providing robustness while allowing for innovative shapes that respect the local environment. Glass façades are thoughtfully integrated, permitting natural light to filter through, illuminating the interior while creating a connection to the exterior world. This interplay of natural light fosters an inviting atmosphere, enhancing the visitor experience throughout the day. Natural stone is utilized in various capacities, establishing a dialogue between the building and its site, firmly rooting the architecture in its geographical context. The potential inclusion of wood within the interiors further enriches the sensory experience, contrasting the ruggedness of the exterior materials with warmth and texture.

What sets the Hecomi Museum apart is its commitment to sustainability and community. The architectural design is not merely a response to aesthetic demands but also considers environmental impact and the social fabric of the area. By integrating spaces for artistic expression and facilitating communal activities, the museum becomes a vital resource for both residents and tourists, encouraging cultural exchange and dialogue.

The project embraces unique design approaches that blend contemporary architectural methods with traditional landscapes, allowing it to resonate with its surroundings without imposing on them. The thoughtful layout and material selections demonstrate a deep understanding of Icelandic culture, meeting the needs of diverse user groups while promoting community engagement.

To fully grasp the depth of the Hecomi Museum's architectural vision, it is essential to explore its architectural plans, sections, and designs. Each detail contributes to the overarching narrative of the project, emphasizing its role as a modern cultural hub grounded in place. For those keen on understanding the intricacies of this architectural endeavor, reviewing the presentation will provide valuable insights into its conception and execution, illuminating the unique ideas that underpin this remarkable project.
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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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