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Interlocking Volumes and Elevated Spaces in a Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Zidan Zhao, Chao Wei
Interlocking Volumes and Elevated Spaces in a Volcanic Landscape
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Elevated interlocking volumes create a dynamic interaction with Myvatn's volcanic landscape, providing an educational space that enhances visitor engagement with the region's geological heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Interlocking volumes create distinct spatial zones for exploration.
02
The central atrium opens to the sky, enhancing natural light throughout.
03
Trapezoidal spaces promote dynamic circulation and visual connections.
04
The design respects the geological features of the surrounding landscape.
05
Amphitheater-like educational space supports community engagement.

The Iceland Volcano Museum is situated in the scenic area of Myvatn, designed to highlight the region's unique geological features. It combines a multipurpose exhibition hall, temporary exhibit spaces, a reception atrium, and necessary logistic areas. The design aims to blend the building with its natural surroundings, creating a space that offers a rich and engaging experience for visitors.

Elevated Forms

Two interlocking volumes characterize the museum's structure, creating a unified yet varied space. The elevation of the exhibition area forms a distinctive entrance, inviting visitors into a setting where they can connect with the architecture on a personal level. As guests enter, they find themselves under the floating volume, which creates an engaging visual and tactile experience.

Spatial Connectivity

The layout encourages smooth movement from the entrance to the roof terrace. The exhibition hall's slight rotation generates trapezoidal spaces that link the office areas, enhancing the sense of exploration. This careful design allows visitors to discover different perspectives as they move through the building. The presence of voids along the paths offers visual connections and quiet moments for reflection.

Central Atrium

The central atrium is a spacious area topped with an open sky. It serves as a focal point within the museum, functioning as a gathering space for visitors. An amphitheater-style educational area located at the bottom accommodates larger groups, supporting the museum's goal of providing educational experiences while fostering community interaction.

Reflective Design Details

Attention to detail is evident in the building’s design, which respects the geological context of Myvatn. While the presentation text does not specify materials, the form suggests a thoughtful approach to texture and experience. The architecture encourages visitors to connect with the landscape, enhancing their understanding of the environment and its geological significance.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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