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Educational facility featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles set in a volcanic landscape

Authors:
Erik Vodenik, Simon Magerl
Educational facility featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles set in a volcanic landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled within Iceland's volcanic terrain, this educational facility harmoniously blends cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles, offering adaptable exhibition spaces that invite exploration and engagement with the geological wonders of the landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The facility employs a bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability while mimicking natural geological formations in the area.
02
Extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels not only showcases advanced construction techniques but also supports sustainability initiatives by reducing carbon footprint.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a weather-resistant façade, enhancing durability while paying homage to traditional Icelandic building methods.
04
The museum's layout incorporates movable wall systems, allowing for dynamic spatial adaptations to cater to various events and exhibitions.
05
A green roof features native vegetation, promoting biodiversity and creating a seamless connection between the building and its volcanic landscape.
The Iceland Volcano Museum is an architectural project that serves as a dedicated space for exploring the dynamic geological phenomena associated with volcanic activity in Iceland. This facility represents both an educational resource and a cultural hub, designed to foster greater understanding and appreciation of the natural forces that shape the landscape. The project merges functionality with aesthetic considerations, creating a welcoming environment for visitors to engage with exhibitions and gather for various community events.

The design of the museum emphasizes versatility, allowing the space to accommodate a range of activities. Central to the project is the multipurpose exhibition hall, which features an adaptable layout. This space can host a variety of functions, from art displays to educational lectures, thus enhancing its utility while promoting community interaction. Moreover, the high ceilings and expansive glazed areas enrich the experience by allowing natural light to fill the interior, while also presenting views of the surrounding Icelandic scenery, fostering a connection between the visitors and the environment.

Distinctive materials play a crucial role in the architectural expression of the museum. The design incorporates sustainable wood throughout, evoking a sense of warmth and familiarity while being in line with environmentally responsible building practices. The extensive use of glass serves dual purposes: it floods the interior with daylight and creates fluid visual connections to the natural surroundings, blending indoor and outdoor experiences. Additionally, volcanic stone is used in the façade construction, directly referencing the geological characteristics that define the region and enriching the building's contextual relevance.

The architectural approach taken in the museum’s design is characterized by its responsiveness to the landscape. The structure features a green roof, which not only supports insulation but also integrates the museum with its surroundings, promoting biodiversity and acting as an environmental buffer. This aspect of the design reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and ecological design principles, reinforcing the museum’s role in educating visitors about environmental stewardship.

An important feature of the museum is its series of open-plan areas that encourage collaboration and social interaction, integral to the museum’s role as a community gathering place. These spaces are designed to be flexible, enabling them to adapt to different needs and allowing for the seamless hosting of diverse programming. The incorporation of sliding walls within the primary exhibition space illustrates an innovative approach to space management, creating opportunities for dynamic spatial configurations and varied exhibition setups.

The architectural forms employed in the museum are purposeful, characterized by clean lines and a geometric composition that is visually engaging while remaining grounded in the landscape's topography. The combination of these design aspects results in a structure that is functional and reflective of the surrounding natural beauty, further enhancing the visitor experience.

In summary, the Iceland Volcano Museum stands as a thought-provoking architectural project that merges education with community engagement, promoting a deeper understanding of volcanic activity and environmental consciousness. The thoughtful selection of materials and innovative design approaches contribute to its functionality as a space for learning and gathering, while its aesthetic choices ensure a strong connection to the unique geographical context of Iceland. For those interested in exploring the nuances of its architectural design, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and innovative ideas, delving into the full presentation of this project will provide rich insights into its conception and execution.
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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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