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Integration of Glass and Stone Within Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Marina Rukavishnikova, Ivan Belyaev, Andrey Petrenko
Integration of Glass and Stone Within Volcanic Landscape
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The museum's glass entrance and stone blocks emerge from the volcanic landscape, creating a harmonious relationship with the environment while serving as a space for exhibitions and visitor engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The museum's design incorporates volcanic stone blocks that reflect the local geology.
02
A glass entrance module enhances visibility and connects the interior to the landscape.
03
Parking areas are discreetly concealed using topographical landscaping techniques.
04
The orientation of the building directs views toward the adjacent volcano.
05
Interior exhibition spaces are designed to promote natural light and visitor interaction.

"Volcano Plato" is a museum designed to connect deeply with Iceland’s volcanic landscape. The project focuses on how the museum blends into its surroundings while highlighting the volcano as a key feature. With a clear intent to preserve the natural beauty of the area, the design invites visitors to engage with both the space and the geological history it represents.

Materials and Structure

The museum presents a minimal and sculptural appearance. It includes a glass entrance that connects three stone blocks, which mimic the region’s geological forms. This design choice makes the building look as if it has grown from the earth itself. The combination of glass and stone reinforces the relationship between the structure and the volcanic landscape around it.

Spatial Organization

Visitor engagement is an important element of the museum’s layout. The building is oriented to frame views of the volcano, drawing attention to this natural landmark. The internal arrangement is designed to guide visitors smoothly from the entrance into exhibition areas, creating an experience that encourages appreciation of the landscape.

Landscaping and Environmental Integration

To address parking needs while protecting the visual landscape, the project separates parking areas for cars and buses. By using landscaping and topography, these areas are concealed from sight. This approach ensures that the museum maintains its visual presence without interference from parking facilities.

The design emphasizes a thoughtful relationship with the environment, showcasing the volcanic landscape. The use of glass and stone forms not only reflects the geological context but also helps shape the museum's identity, offering a space that is both functional and respectful of its surroundings.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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