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Lava Flow-Inspired Design Featuring Translucent Glass and Local Stone for a Geological Learning Hub

Authors:
Ekaterina Voronova, Alexander Simonov
Lava Flow-Inspired Design Featuring Translucent Glass and Local Stone for a Geological Learning Hub

Project in-detail

Translucent glass façades echo the natural flow of lava, while robust concrete and local stone create a tactile connection to Iceland's geological history, all serving as a captivating backdrop for an educational museum dedicated to volcanic phenomena.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame structure that integrates with the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced sustainability and structural stability.
03
Employs charred wooden shingles to enhance durability while referencing traditional Icelandic building techniques.
04
Features expansive glass façades that offer unobstructed views of the natural environment, fostering a connection to the landscape.
05
Includes interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors in the science and culture of Iceland's volcanic activity.
The Iceland Volcano Museum serves as an architectural project that encapsulates the geological and cultural narrative intrinsic to Iceland's volcanic landscape. Located in a region characterized by its diverse geological features, the museum acts as an educational hub, offering visitors a comprehensive understanding of volcanic activity while fostering a deep connection to the surrounding environment.

At its core, the museum represents the dynamic interplay between nature and architecture. Through its design, it seeks to illustrate the powerful forces of volcanic activity that have shaped the land over millennia. The museum is not merely a collection of exhibition spaces; it is a manifestation of the historical, scientific, and cultural stories that these natural phenomena conjure.

Functionally, the Iceland Volcano Museum is designed to accommodate a diverse range of activities. It serves as a space for exhibitions, educational workshops, lectures, and community events. The architectural layout is intentionally created to promote visitor engagement and exploration, allowing for both guided experiences and individual discovery. Visitors can navigate through various interconnected spaces that highlight different aspects of Iceland's volcanic history and the science behind these geological wonders.

The spatial organization of the museum features a main volume that houses the primary exhibition hall. This expansive space is adaptable enough to accommodate traveling exhibits and significant installations, creating a versatile environment for educational programming. Surrounding this core structure are several smaller pavilions, each dedicated to specific themes related to volcanology, the environment, or cultural aspects influenced by volcanic activity. This modular approach enhances the visitor experience by offering a variety of experiences within a cohesive framework.

The design philosophy of the Iceland Volcano Museum is reflected in its material choices and architectural language. A prominent use of glass allows for seamless transparency, enabling a connection between the interior space and the breathtaking landscape outside. Natural light floods the exhibition areas, which are essential for creating an inviting atmosphere and ensuring that visitors remain engaged. Concrete and locally sourced stone are predominant materials, echoing the very geological features that the museum seeks to educate its visitors about. These materials not only ground the building within its site but also convey a sense of permanence and strength, reminiscent of the solidified lava flows that characterize the region.

Unique design approaches include the innovative layout that mimics the flow of lava, an intentional reflection of nature’s complexities. The irregularities and curves in the building's form mirror the unpredictability of volcanic eruptions, creating a dialogue between architecture and the forces of nature. This organic alignment with the landscape allows the museum to become part of the environment rather than simply imposing upon it, encouraging visitors to engage with both the building and its surroundings.

The experience inside the museum is further enhanced by ambient light features and carefully curated exhibit pathways that guide visitors through the narrative of Iceland's geological history. These elements are designed to foster a sense of discovery, inviting people to wander through the different spaces at their own pace. As visitors explore, they are integrated into an ongoing story that unfolds through thoughtfully designed educational content, multimedia presentations, and interactive displays.

The Iceland Volcano Museum stands as a testament to the significance of place in architectural design. Its location in one of the world's most geologically active regions provides not only context but also a rich source of inspiration. By weaving together education, exploration, and cultural storytelling, the museum offers a unique opportunity for both locals and tourists to engage with Iceland’s volcanic heritage in a profound and meaningful way.

For more details about the Iceland Volcano Museum, including its architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This deeper dive will provide insights into the architectural ideas and strategies employed to create a space that eloquently speaks to the powerful nature of Iceland’s landscape.
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Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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