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Earth Wall Construction Using Local Stone and Timber Trusses for a Visitor Center Experience

Author:
Kangyi Shen
Earth Wall Construction Using Local Stone and Timber Trusses for a Visitor Center Experience

Project in-detail

Utilizing a thick earth wall constructed from local stone and supported by timber trusses, the visitor center offers an immersive experience of Hverfjall Volcano while providing essential visitor services.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stone to create thick earth walls that blend with the volcanic landscape.
02
Incorporates timber trusses for structural support while allowing flexibility in interior space.
03
Features extensive glazing that maximizes natural light and views of Hverfjall Volcano.
04
Designed to minimize visual impact through careful integration with the surrounding topography.
05
Constructed with sustainable materials to reduce environmental footprint and enhance energy efficiency.

The visitor center at the foot of Hverfjall Volcano in Iceland is designed to support the experiences of tourists exploring the volcanic landscape. This project serves as an integral facility, providing essential services such as an information center and a coffee shop, while prioritizing sustainability and environmental integration. The architectural design emphasizes a seamless blend with the surrounding terrain, facilitating a connection between visitors and the natural environment.

Design Philosophy and Materiality

The design concept focuses on integration with the natural landscape, minimizing visual intrusion. The building features two distinct masses that serve different functions while maintaining a visual link. The use of local soil and stone forms a thick wall, grounding the structure in its volcanic context. This choice of material not only emphasizes sustainability but also reflects the geological characteristics of the site. Concrete masonry units are utilized for internal partitions, allowing for adaptive space use. Timber trusses support the roof structure, bringing warmth and a light aesthetic, while metal roof panels ensure durability against harsh weather. Large, double-glazed windows are strategically placed to provide ample natural light and frame views of Hverfjall Volcano, enhancing the visitor experience.

Functional Spaces

The interior layout is designed to optimize visitor flow and comfort. Key areas include the coffee shop, information kiosk, and various exhibition spaces. The arrangement provides clear zoning, separating public functions from service areas. The effective use of space accommodates educational presentations on the volcanic region, and the coffee shop serves as a social hub for visitors. Operable windows encourage natural ventilation and further integrate the indoor environment with the exterior climate.

Unique Architectural Approaches

This project’s unique approach lies in its commitment to disappearing architecture. By carefully selecting local materials and crafting a structure that follows the topography, the building minimizes its visual footprint while encouraging visitors to engage with their surroundings. The architectural design employs energy-efficient strategies that reduce reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. Additionally, the project enhances visitor engagement by promoting immersive experiences that celebrate the natural site and its geological features.

The visitor center at Hverfjall Volcano in Iceland sets a benchmark for maintaining environmental integrity within architectural projects. To explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs in greater depth, readers are encouraged to examine the project presentation for further insights.

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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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