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Geothermal Center Featuring Slate Facade and Green Roof Integration in Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Christopher Nicholls, Charles Delkeskamp, Shaun Howley
Geothermal Center Featuring Slate Facade and Green Roof Integration in Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled within the volcanic landscape of Iceland, a geothermal center showcases a slate facade and green roof, offering an educational hub that connects visitors to the region's geological heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Nestled in a volcanic landscape, the center utilizes locally sourced slate for its distinctive facade.
02
The design incorporates green roofs to enhance thermal efficiency and integrate with the natural environment.
03
Large glass panels provide panoramic views while maximizing natural light throughout the interior spaces.
04
Educational exhibits focus on the unique geological processes of the surrounding area, promoting visitor engagement.
05
The structure employs sustainable geothermal energy systems to minimize its environmental impact.
The Hot Spot is an architectural project situated near Lake Mývatn in North-East Iceland, designed as a tourism center emphasizing the region's unique geological characteristics. At its core, the project serves as an educational and experiential hub, showcasing the volcanic activity and geological history of the Iceland Plateau. The design is reflective of both the natural context and the cultural significance of the area, effectively merging architectural functionality with environmental stewardship.

The primary function of The Hot Spot is to provide visitors with informative exhibits and amenities that highlight the geological processes of the surrounding landscape, particularly those associated with volcanic activity. The structured spaces include an exhibition area, gathering spaces, and information points that foster engagement with both the environment and local heritage.

The architectural design features several notable elements that contribute to its overall impact. Large glass panels dominate the facades, facilitating a visual connection to the landscape while allowing natural light to permeate the interiors. The use of slate panels draws inspiration from local volcanic rock formations, creating an aesthetic continuity that resonates with the site's geology. The concrete structural elements provide stability, while green roofs enhance thermal insulation and blend the building into its natural surroundings.

In addition to its functional aspects, The Hot Spot employs several unique design strategies that set it apart from conventional tourist centers. The spatial layout serves to evoke geological themes of "Divide," "Fracture," "Uplift," and "Diverge," reflecting the tectonic characteristics of the area. This conceptual framework is integrated throughout the design, from the architecture’s angular forms mimicking geological features to the arrangement of spaces encouraging exploration and interaction.

The internal organization emphasizes openness, promoting a collaborative environment that encourages visitor interaction. Informative displays are strategically positioned to engage users effectively, enhancing their understanding of the geological context. The focus on utilizing renewable energy sources, including geothermal and solar technologies, aligns with the principles of sustainability and environmental responsibility, which are critical in an ecologically sensitive region like Iceland.

Overall, The Hot Spot represents an integration of architecture and landscape, designed to educate and inspire visitors through its thoughtful engagement with the surrounding environment. For those interested in exploring the project's architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, further investigation into the key implementation details and systems will offer a more comprehensive understanding of this project’s distinctive approach to architecture and design.
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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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