Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Museum designed with rammed earth and cast concrete to harmonize with volcanic landscapes

Authors:
Veronika Glazunova, Ivan Tsikolenko, Anastasia Kostyl, Aleksey Dmitriev
Museum designed with rammed earth and cast concrete to harmonize with volcanic landscapes

Project in-detail

Nestled among Iceland's volcanic terrain, this museum uniquely integrates rammed earth and cast concrete to create immersive exhibition spaces that reflect the natural landscape while inviting visitors to explore the geological wonders of the region.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The museum features subterranean exhibition spaces that enhance visitor engagement by immersing them within the geological context of the site.
02
A unique landscape integration approach allows the building to blend seamlessly with the surrounding volcanic terrain, minimizing visual impact.
03
The structure incorporates rammed earth in its facades, reflecting local geological materials and promoting environmental sustainability.
04
Ample use of glass facades maximizes natural light and provides panoramic views of Hverfjall Volcano, connecting visitors with the landscape.
05
The fluid spatial organization allows for thematic pathways, encouraging exploration and interaction without conventional gallery constraints.
The Volcano Museum project embodies a thoughtful exploration of architecture that is deeply connected to its surroundings in Iceland. Nestled amid various geological formations, this museum serves not only as a repository for exhibits related to volcanic activity but also as a physical representation of the landscape it inhabits. The architectural design aims to create a dialogue between the built environment and the natural world, with a concept that prioritizes both functionality and aesthetic harmony.

Functionally, the Volcano Museum is designed to serve as an educational hub that communicates the unique geological phenomena of the region. Visitors are invited to engage with the displays through immersive exhibition spaces that encourage exploration and curiosity. The museum's layout transcends traditional gallery models, presenting thematic zones such as "Cave," "Loop," "Alley," and "Forest." These creatively named areas invite visitors to traverse through various shapes and forms that echo the complexities of the Icelandic geology.

A particularly noteworthy aspect of the project is its unique approach to materiality. The architects have chosen to incorporate locally sourced materials that resonate with the surrounding landscape. Key materials include cast concrete, which provides durability and structural integrity, and rammed earth for facades that mimic the textures and hues of the volcanic terrain. Extensive use of glass allows natural light to permeate the interior, further connecting the indoor spaces to the vistas outside. Additionally, wooden accents throughout offer warmth and tactility, softening the otherwise stark industrial feel of concrete. This thoughtful selection of materials underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability and ecological consciousness.

The design also emphasizes a seamless integration with the landscape. The building is partially buried within the earth, creating a visual connection with the topography and minimizing disruption to the site. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic of the museum but also serves a practical purpose in blending the structure into its environment. Above ground, the museum appears as a series of undulating forms that evoke the surrounding volcanic hills, allowing the architecture to contribute to the overall character of the location.

In terms of spatial organization, the architectural layout facilitates a natural flow for visitors. A distinctive aspect of the museum’s design is its focus on verticality and dynamic volumes, which guide movement through the various exhibition areas. Towers and elevated sections provide sightlines toward points of interest, such as the nearby Hverfjall Volcano, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the landscape while they learn about it. The underground spaces serve as critical exhibition pathways, designed to enhance the thematic experiences without overwhelming visitors.

The project's architectural plans exhibit a sensitivity to the natural environment and a commitment to enhancing the visitor experience. The interplay between public and private spaces fosters a sense of belonging, while amenities such as restaurants and observation areas contribute to the overall visitor journey. Each element within the museum is intended to coexist harmoniously, demonstrating clear architectural ideas that prioritize both functionality and interaction with nature.

Exploring the architectural sections of the Volcano Museum reveals how each space has been crafted to meet the dual goals of education and inspiration. The design encourages visitors to contemplate the significance of volcanic activity and understand its impact on the local environment while providing comfort and enjoyment during their visit.

Overall, the Volcano Museum represents a thoughtful integration of architecture with the natural landscape, offering visitors an interactive experience that educates them about the dynamic geological forces at play in Iceland. To gain further insights into the intricate architectural designs, plans, and sections of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more detailed information.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 16544 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