Integrating ETFE and concrete within the rugged landscape of Iceland's lava fields, the center serves as a functional visitor hub focused on geological education and cultural appreciation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates geothermal energy systems for sustainable operation.
02
Utilizes ETFE for natural light diffusion and thermal performance.
03
Designed with a Black Box and White Surface to symbolize geological duality.
04
Observation terraces provide panoramic views of volcanic landscapes.
05
Exhibition spaces focus on Icelandic cultural and geological narratives.
General keywords
The Co-Exist: Iceland Black Lava Fields Visitor Center is an architectural project located between Lake Mývatn and Hverfjall in Iceland. This facility serves as an educational and recreational hub, designed to enhance visitor engagement with the surrounding volcanic landscape. The architectural concept integrates two distinct forms – the Black Box and the White Surface – which symbolize the duality of the site and its geological history.
The Black Box houses exhibition spaces and educational areas, highlighting the cultural and geological importance of the lava fields. Its cubic form uses robust materials to establish a strong visual presence while reflecting the characteristics of the surrounding volcanic terrain. In contrast, the White Surface, characterized by its fluid and organic shape, wraps around the Black Box. This integration encourages a natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces and provides visitors with an immersive experience of the landscape.
Design Approaches and Materiality
This project employs an innovative design that emphasizes sustainability and environmental integration. The Black Box is constructed using concrete and cement, materials that provide structural integrity and durability. The incorporation of ETFE, a lightweight and transparent material, in the White Surface allows for natural light penetration while maintaining insulation. The utilization of wood for interior finishes adds warmth and contrasts with the primary structure’s robustness.
The visitor center benefits from geothermal energy, aligning with Iceland's focus on renewable resources. This sustainable approach reduces the project's carbon footprint, demonstrating a model for eco-friendly architecture. The roof terraces function as observation points, offering visitors panoramic views of the stunning landscape, thereby enhancing their connection to nature.
Spatial Organization and Functionality
The visitor center is organized into distinct zones to facilitate various functions. The café and shop areas serve as gathering spaces for visitors, providing amenities that enhance their overall experience. The exhibition rooms within the Black Box are purposefully designed to accommodate temporary displays and educational programs, emphasizing the site's geological narratives.
Observation terraces situated on the roof offer unique vantage points, encouraging visitors to engage with the surrounding environment actively. This layout, combined with the architectural forms, fosters a cohesive visitor experience, allowing for exploration that is both educational and recreational.
This project exemplifies the convergence of architectural design, sustainability, and environmental awareness. To fully appreciate the details and nuances of the Co-Exist: Iceland Black Lava Fields Visitor Center, interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs for a comprehensive understanding of this unique project.
The Black Box houses exhibition spaces and educational areas, highlighting the cultural and geological importance of the lava fields. Its cubic form uses robust materials to establish a strong visual presence while reflecting the characteristics of the surrounding volcanic terrain. In contrast, the White Surface, characterized by its fluid and organic shape, wraps around the Black Box. This integration encourages a natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces and provides visitors with an immersive experience of the landscape.
Design Approaches and Materiality
This project employs an innovative design that emphasizes sustainability and environmental integration. The Black Box is constructed using concrete and cement, materials that provide structural integrity and durability. The incorporation of ETFE, a lightweight and transparent material, in the White Surface allows for natural light penetration while maintaining insulation. The utilization of wood for interior finishes adds warmth and contrasts with the primary structure’s robustness.
The visitor center benefits from geothermal energy, aligning with Iceland's focus on renewable resources. This sustainable approach reduces the project's carbon footprint, demonstrating a model for eco-friendly architecture. The roof terraces function as observation points, offering visitors panoramic views of the stunning landscape, thereby enhancing their connection to nature.
Spatial Organization and Functionality
The visitor center is organized into distinct zones to facilitate various functions. The café and shop areas serve as gathering spaces for visitors, providing amenities that enhance their overall experience. The exhibition rooms within the Black Box are purposefully designed to accommodate temporary displays and educational programs, emphasizing the site's geological narratives.
Observation terraces situated on the roof offer unique vantage points, encouraging visitors to engage with the surrounding environment actively. This layout, combined with the architectural forms, fosters a cohesive visitor experience, allowing for exploration that is both educational and recreational.
This project exemplifies the convergence of architectural design, sustainability, and environmental awareness. To fully appreciate the details and nuances of the Co-Exist: Iceland Black Lava Fields Visitor Center, interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs for a comprehensive understanding of this unique project.
