Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Lava Rock Panels and Natural Light in a Volcanic Landscape Experience

Authors:
Nodar Dekanosidze, Ana Tevzadze
Lava Rock Panels and Natural Light in a Volcanic Landscape Experience

Project in-detail

Emphasizing the use of lava rock panels and abundant natural light, the museum provides an immersive exploration of Iceland's volcanic heritage and geological history.
5 key facts about this project
01
Lava rock panels are used as the primary building material, ensuring structural integrity and local significance.
02
The courtyard design reflects Iceland's diverse landscapes, inviting exploration and contemplation.
03
Public areas are strategically arranged to facilitate visitor interaction and movement throughout the museum.
04
Natural light is maximized through spatial configurations, enhancing the overall atmosphere within the museum.
05
A secondary entrance for back-office functions separates administrative tasks from public spaces, improving operational efficiency.

The Iceland Volcano Museum is situated in a landscape that highlights its volcanic heritage. Designed to function as both an educational and cultural center, the museum focuses on the unique geological history of Iceland. The concept revolves around traditional Icelandic architecture, featuring layouts that respond to local building practices while meeting modern needs.

Function and Layout
The layout of the museum divides spaces based on their use. Public areas, like exhibition spaces and a cafeteria, are placed to encourage visitor movement and interaction. This thoughtful arrangement makes it easy for guests to explore the exhibits while engaging in communal activities. In contrast, the back-office area is located in the southern part of the building. It includes offices, meeting rooms, and an open workspace, ensuring that administrative functions remain distinct from visitor areas.

Natural Light Integration
Natural light is a key feature of the design. Each section of the museum is carefully arranged to allow sunlight to enter throughout the day. This not only decreases the need for artificial lighting but also creates a pleasant atmosphere inside. The flow of light enhances the experience for visitors, making the exhibits more inviting and engaging.

Materiality and Symbolism
Lava rock panels are the primary materials used in construction. They provide strength and reinforce the connection to the volcanic landscape. The courtyard is an important element, showcasing lava stone that reflects Iceland’s geological diversity. Features designed to capture the northern lights add visual interest, linking the museum's structure to its natural environment in a meaningful way.

The thoughtful design allows the museum to reflect the beauty and history of Iceland while creating a welcoming space for all. Visitors can immerse themselves in the story of the land and its past.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy