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Curvilinear Volcanic Stone Structure With Sedum Roofing for Geological Education

Author:
Matthew Usher
Curvilinear Volcanic Stone Structure With Sedum Roofing for Geological Education

Project in-detail

Designed with curvilinear forms and clad in local volcanic stone, the center incorporates a sedum roof to enhance sustainability while serving as an educational hub for understanding Iceland's unique geological landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear architecture mimics the form of natural lava flows.
02
Exterior clad in locally sourced volcanic stone enhances ecological integration.
03
Sedum roof provides insulation and supports local biodiversity.
04
Large glazed facades ensure maximum natural light and landscape engagement.
05
Exhibition spaces designed for interactive educational experiences on geology.
The Dimmuborgir Lava Field Visitor Center is an architectural project located in Iceland, situated within the unique geological landscape of the Dimmuborgir lava formations. This structure serves as an educational and experiential hub, designed to enhance the understanding of the region's volcanic history and natural beauty. Its role encompasses providing information, accommodations, and a space for reflection, allowing visitors to engage meaningfully with the surrounding environment.

The Visitor Center’s design concept emphasizes the interplay between the built environment and the natural landscape. By drawing inspiration from the forms of craters and lava flows, the architecture integrates seamlessly into its surroundings. The building materials enhance this connection; raw volcanic stone clads the structure, mirroring the geological features nearby. The large glass facades serve a dual purpose, allowing natural light to flood the interior while framing views of the significant geological formations, thus creating an immersive visitor experience.

Unique Design Approaches
One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Dimmuborgir Visitor Center is its curvilinear architectural style, which deviates from the traditional rigid structures often found in similar projects. The design allows the building to blend into the undulating terrain, with sweeping lines reflecting the dynamism of lava flows. Terraces and viewing platforms extend outwards, encouraging visitors to engage directly with the landscape. This spatial strategy not only facilitates a deeper connection with the environmental context but also maximizes visual interaction between indoor activities and outdoor vistas.

Sustainability is also a key aspect of the design approach. The use of a sedum roof contributes to ecological balance by providing insulation and enhancing the building's integration with the natural surroundings. The materials selected for construction, including anodized aluminum for window frames, also support durability, ensuring the structure can withstand the harsh Icelandic climate while maintaining its aesthetic integrity.

Architectural Details and Functionality
The layout of the Visitor Center is organized into functional zones, including a lobby, exhibition spaces, a café, and educational areas. Each zone is designed to facilitate specific visitor interactions while promoting a cohesive flow throughout the building. The lobby serves as the central hub, providing access to all areas and displaying views of the lava formations. The café is strategically placed to enable visitors to appreciate the landscape while relaxing.

Exhibition spaces are designed to provide interactive experiences, presenting both the geological history and the cultural narratives of the region. These areas are equipped with displays that allow for a multifaceted exploration of Dimmuborgir, encouraging deeper engagement with its natural and cultural significance.

For those interested in exploring more about the Dimmuborgir Lava Field Visitor Center, a review of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will offer deeper insights into the project’s structural and aesthetic considerations. This analysis invites further investigation into how the architectural ideas manifest in this unique setting.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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