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Hverfjall Views Framed by Red Rhyolite and Glass Connectivity in a Volcanology Museum

Author:
Alistair Chang
Hverfjall Views Framed by Red Rhyolite and Glass Connectivity in a Volcanology Museum

Project in-detail

Framed by sweeping views of Hverfjall and constructed from indigenous Red Rhyolite, the museum integrates glass walkways and geothermal energy systems to create an engaging educational space dedicated to volcanology.
5 key facts about this project
01
Framed by Hverfjall, the museum offers panoramic views through its undulating glass facade.
02
The structure is built using Red Rhyolite, establishing a strong connection to the local geology.
03
Geothermal heating systems ensure the building achieves net-zero energy consumption.
04
Two interconnected glass catwalks enhance visitor flow and interaction between spaces.
05
An outdoor courtyard features a water element, creating a focal point for community engagement.

The Iceland Museum of Volcanology (IMOV) is situated in a region known for its unique volcanic landscape. It serves to educate visitors about volcanic activity and its impact on the environment. The design features two interconnected buildings that focus on functionality and sustainability. By blending into its surroundings, the museum aims to reflect Iceland’s geological and cultural identity.

Design Concept
Two distinct buildings house the museum's various functions. The first building includes essential spaces such as a reception area, offices, and conference rooms. The second building features exhibition halls and an archival floor located in the basement. This arrangement allows for a well-rounded educational experience, encouraging visitors to explore and learn about volcanology in a comprehensive manner.

Connectivity and Interaction
A notable feature of the design is the inclusion of two glass catwalks connecting the two buildings. This design choice promotes interaction and openness, making it easy for visitors to move between spaces. An outdoor courtyard with a water feature enhances the overall experience, acting as a welcoming space for gatherings and events. This thoughtful arrangement helps to create a lively atmosphere where people feel encouraged to engage with one another and the exhibits.

Sustainability and Materiality
Sustainability plays a crucial role in the museum's design. The structure is designed to achieve net-zero emissions. A geothermal heat pump provides efficient heating, while sloped roofs are equipped with solar panels to collect energy. The use of Red Rhyolite, a volcanic rock found in the region, connects the museum to its local environment. This choice not only contributes to the building's durability but also reinforces its ties to the geographical context of Iceland.

Structural Systems
The structural design employs sloped steel trusses and cross-bracing to create large open spaces, with these elements cleverly hidden within stone-clad walls. One of the most compelling aspects is the undulating glass facade, which offers views of Hverfjall volcano and the northern lights. This feature allows visitors to experience the beauty of the natural world while inside the museum, creating a connection that enhances the educational purpose of the facility.

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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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