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Lava Stone Roofs and Smoked Wood Facades Enhancing Geographical Connection in a Volcano Education Center

Author:
Xiaowei Bai
Lava Stone Roofs and Smoked Wood Facades Enhancing Geographical Connection in a Volcano Education Center

Project in-detail

Characterized by its distinctive lava stone roofing and charred wood cladding, the Volcano Museum in Iceland offers an immersive educational experience centered on volcanic geology and environmental awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Located at the base of Hverfjall volcano, the museum emphasizes geological context in its design.
02
The roofscape serves as a public pathway, integrating visitor movement with panoramic landscape views.
03
Charred wooden shingles were selected for their visual warmth and to enhance fire resistance.
04
Lava stone tiles mimic the textures of volcanic rock, creating a cohesive connection with the site.
05
Rainwater collection systems are integrated into the roof design, promoting sustainable practices.
The Iceland Volcano Museum is an architectural project designed to celebrate and interpret the geological phenomena associated with Icelandic volcanoes, particularly the Hverfjall volcano. Located within a unique geological landscape, this museum serves as a functional space for education and exploration, allowing visitors to engage deeply with the subject of volcanology.

This project encompasses various key components designed to enhance visitor experience while maintaining a strong sense of place. The museum features a lobby, exhibition areas, a café, and a gift shop, all organized to facilitate the smooth flow of foot traffic. The architectural design reflects an emphasis on connection with the landscape, highlighting views of the volcano and surrounding natural features.

The structure's distinct roof design stands out, taking inspiration from the shape and contours of Hverfjall. This roof not only provides shelter but also serves as a walking path that allows visitors to ascend and engage with the surrounding vistas. The approach integrates the building with the terrain, enhancing the experience of transition from the ground to elevated viewpoints.

The museum utilizes materials selected for their relevance, including dark smoked wood cladding that resonates with the nearby volcanic rocks, as well as lava stone tiles that echo the geological features of the local landscape. The use of steel framing provides structural integrity, enabling open and adaptable exhibition spaces ideally suited for showcasing various displays related to volcanic activity.

The museum's design strategy prioritizes sustainable practices, incorporating rainwater harvesting through the roof design and utilizing local materials to minimize environmental impact. This ecological awareness aligns with the project’s educational mission, presenting an opportunity for visitors to understand not just the science of volcanology, but also the importance of environmental stewardship.

The Iceland Volcano Museum exemplifies contemporary architecture that is sensitive to its context. Its unique integration with the Hverfjall volcano, along with thoughtful material choices and sustainable design elements, provides a model for future public facilities.

For further details, consider exploring architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas related to this project to gain deeper insights into its design principles and functional attributes.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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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