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Museum focused on Volcanology Featuring Basin Stone Shingles and Polished Concrete Integration

Authors:
Ismael Soto, Carlo Sturken
Museum focused on Volcanology Featuring Basin Stone Shingles and Polished Concrete Integration

Project in-detail

Nestled within Iceland’s volcanic landscape, this museum uniquely combines basin stone shingles and polished concrete to create an immersive educational experience that connects visitors with the region's geological heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The exterior is clad in basin stone shingles, chosen for their thermal insulation properties and visual harmony with the volcanic landscape.
02
Polished concrete on interior surfaces enhances acoustic performance while reflecting natural light throughout the exhibition spaces.
03
The museum incorporates adjustable shading devices that respond to varying weather conditions, optimizing energy efficiency and visitor comfort.
04
An outdoor sculpture park is integrated into the design, featuring art installations that engage with the surrounding geological features.
05
The layout includes multipurpose exhibition halls that can be easily adapted for both permanent and temporary displays, fostering community involvement.
The Volcano Museum project represents a significant cultural and educational initiative situated in the breathtaking landscape of Iceland. This architectural design serves not merely as a space for exhibit but as a hub for learning and interaction, focusing specifically on the country’s rich volcanic heritage. The museum is intended to inform visitors about the geological processes and natural phenomena associated with Iceland's volcanic activity while fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.

At its core, the Volcano Museum integrates various functional areas thoughtfully crafted to enhance visitor experience. The design includes multipurpose exhibition halls that are adaptable for a range of installations, from historical displays to contemporary art. These spaces encourage community engagement by hosting events and activities that invite public participation. Adjacent to these halls is the Arrival Gallery, a welcoming space designed to serve as an information dissemination point, equipping visitors with knowledge about significant local geological landmarks right from the outset.

The architecture exhibits a clear homage to traditional Icelandic building techniques, particularly through the incorporation of natural materials like basin stone shingles and polished concrete. The materiality reflects the surrounding environment, emphasizing thermal insulation and durability required to withstand the region's unique climate. For instance, the use of polished concrete on interior surfaces not only provides a clean, modern aesthetic but also serves practical purposes in terms of acoustics and maintenance.

The architectural design employs large expanses of glass that enable panoramic views of the striking Icelandic landscape. This transparency fosters a continuous dialogue between the interior and exterior, engaging visitors with the beauty of nature beyond the museum's confines. Visitors are reminded that they are surrounded by some of the most intriguing geological formations in the world, making their experience educational as well as visually captivating. Unique design approaches such as these encourage an immersive experience—connecting visitors closely with the subject matter of the museum.

The building's layout is intentionally open and inviting, allowing for natural circulation while promoting organic visitor flow. The inclusion of an outdoor sculpture park enhances the connection between art and geology, providing spaces for reflection and interaction within a beautifully landscaped setting. Each element is considered to harmonize with the environment while facilitating educational opportunities regarding the subject of volcanism.

Notably, the project emphasizes sustainability by incorporating adjustable exterior shading devices designed to respond to the local climate conditions. This aspect of the design addresses energy efficiency needs, creating an environment that is comfortable for visitors while minimizing the building’s ecological footprint. The architecture cleverly reflects the realities of volcanic activity in Iceland, manifesting a commitment to both the natural world and thoughtful design.

Through its careful planning and execution, the Volcano Museum stands as a remarkable example of how architecture can serve educational and cultural purposes while remaining mindful of the surrounding environment. For those interested in deepening their understanding of this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, a thorough exploration of the presentation is encouraged to gain insights into the thoughtful architectural ideas behind this museum design. The opportunity to see these components in detail will provide a richer perspective on how the project meets its goals of education and community engagement.
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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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