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

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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 €
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