Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Reflective Glass and Volcanic Rock Structure Embracing Iceland's Geological Heritage

Author:
Deshun Liu
Reflective Glass and Volcanic Rock Structure Embracing Iceland's Geological Heritage

Project in-detail

Embodying the rugged beauty of Iceland’s geothermal landscape, the museum's reflective glass and volcanic rock construction offers an immersive exploration of volcanic activity and local geology.
5 key facts about this project
01
The museum features a façade designed to mirror the surrounding volcanic landscape, enhancing visual integration with the environment.
02
Reflective glass panels provide ever-changing views of the landscape, creating a dynamic interaction between inside and outside areas.
03
Curvilinear forms throughout the structure mimic natural landforms, reflecting the region's geological characteristics.
04
Volcanic rock sourced from the local area is used decoratively, establishing a direct connection to the site's geological history.
05
The sustainability-focused design incorporates water features that enhance the sensory experience while promoting ecological awareness.
The architectural project known as "The Mirror Land" serves as a museum dedicated to the fascinating world of volcanoes, situated near Myvatn Lake in Iceland. This project represents a unique fusion of architectural design and the natural landscape, reflecting the area’s geological history and ecological diversity. It functions as both an educational facility and a cultural landmark, providing visitors with insightful experiences that highlight the significance of volcanic activity.

The design of "The Mirror Land" is characterized by its dynamic form, which captures the essence of the surrounding volcanic terrain. The overall silhouette flows gracefully, resembling the undulating shapes of the landscape it inhabits. This design approach intentionally blurs the boundaries between the built environment and nature, creating a harmonious relationship that invites exploration and engagement. The project is constructed predominantly from materials that resonate with the local context, including glass, concrete, volcanic rock, and steel. These materials were selected for their durability and aesthetic appeal, reflecting the characteristics of both the natural environment and contemporary architectural trends.

The extensive use of glass in the design allows for immersive views of the striking Icelandic landscape. This transparency creates a dialogue between the museum's interior and its exterior, enabling visitors to appreciate the beauty of the area while engaging with the exhibitions. The concrete used provides structural stability, while its raw finish adds a tactile quality that connects the building to the volcanic earth beneath it. Volcanic rock incorporated into the architecture reinforces the project's ties to the local geology, creating a physical connection to the land that is both educational and evocative.

Inside, the museum features a thoughtfully organized spatial layout that enhances the visitor experience. A central hub serves as the starting point for exploration, from which various exhibition halls radiate in a spiral pattern. This arrangement not only aids in navigation but also cultivates a sense of curiosity, encouraging guests to delve deeper into the themes presented. As visitors progress through the spaces, they encounter different aspects of volcanic activity, from the scientific to the cultural, enriching their understanding of these powerful natural phenomena.

Unique design elements further distinguish this project. The outdoor observation areas and viewing platforms provide striking vantage points of the surrounding landscape, complementing the indoor exhibitions and allowing for a seamless transition between learning and experiencing the geological features firsthand. Water features, such as pools at the entrance, add to the sensory experience, inviting visitors to engage with the natural environment from the moment they arrive.

This project exemplifies an architectural approach that prioritizes sustainability and the integration of natural beauty into its design. By reflecting the landscape through its form and materials, "The Mirror Land" does not merely exist within its environment; it interacts with it in a meaningful way. This thoughtful consideration fosters a deeper appreciation for the geological processes that shape Iceland and enhances the educational mission of the museum.

The careful composition of architectural plans, sections, and designs in this project unveils a comprehensive understanding of space and context. Each element is meticulously crafted to ensure that visitors not only absorb knowledge but also connect emotionally with the themes exhibited. By engaging with the architectural ideas embedded in "The Mirror Land," one can appreciate the skillful balance between innovation and reverence for the natural world.

For those interested in exploring this project further, a closer inspection of the architectural plans, sections, and overall design will provide valuable insight into the thoughtful considerations that shape this extraordinary museum. Discover how architecture can respond to its environment and foster a profound appreciation for the powerful forces of nature that define our world.
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