Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Natural Stone And Concrete Integration Creating Immersive Observation Spaces In A Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Alex Matute, Emma Schnelle
Natural Stone And Concrete Integration Creating Immersive Observation Spaces In A Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Employing natural stone and concrete to seamlessly merge with its volcanic surroundings, the design transforms the visitor experience by offering immersive observation spaces that enhance interaction with the unique landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes natural stone integration to reflect the local volcanic geology.
02
Features elevated pathways designed to enhance views of surrounding landscapes.
03
Incorporates strategically placed openings for optimal natural light.
04
Employs concrete elements to complement the rugged terrain and its textures.
05
Creates intimate spaces that contrast with expansive observation areas.

Hverfjall Point is an architectural project designed to enhance the visitor experience near the Hverfjall volcano in Iceland. The facility aims to provide an immersive interaction with the surrounding landscape, characterized by its volcanic geography. The project emphasizes the relationship between architecture and nature, encouraging a deeper appreciation of the site's unique geological features.

The primary function of Hverfjall Point is to serve as an observation and gathering space for visitors exploring the Hverfjall area. The design incorporates pathways and viewpoints that guide individuals through the landscape, creating an experiential journey that contrasts enclosed, intimate spaces with expansive vistas. This interaction is integral to the project, drawing people into an engagement with both the architecture and the surrounding natural elements.

Unique Design Approaches

Hverfjall Point stands out in several respects. Firstly, the integration of natural stone and concrete materials reflects the local geological characteristics, resulting in a structure that merges with its environment instead of overpowering it. This deliberate choice of materials emphasizes durability while providing a tactile connection to the site's heritage.

The architectural layout employs changes in elevation and space to create a flow that enhances visitor experience. Narrow corridors that lead to wide-open views create a dynamic environmental interaction. This strategy not only encourages exploration but also fosters contemplation, as visitors are directed through varying spatial qualities.

Lighting also plays a crucial role in this design. Strategic openings allow natural light to filter into the interior spaces, creating a play of light and shadow that changes throughout the day. This aspect not only contributes to the ambiance but also reinforces the connection between the architecture and the surrounding landscape.

Spatial Connectivity and User Engagement

The project emphasizes spatial connectivity through carefully defined pathways that allow for a seamless transition between distinct areas. Visitors can navigate through narrow, dark passages that evoke the volcanic landscape before emerging into expansive viewpoints.

This design approach ensures that each area serves a specific role in the overall visitor experience. The architectural design incorporates spaces for relaxation, reflection, and contemplation, allowing users to engage with their environment in meaningful ways. The incorporation of seating areas at key vantage points encourages people to linger and appreciate the unique surroundings.

For a deeper insight into Hverfjall Point, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, it is recommended to explore the project presentation further. This exploration can reveal additional details about the innovative design and effectiveness of this architectural endeavor in harmonizing with the extraordinary Icelandic landscape.

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

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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
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