Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Reflex Glass And Volcanic Rock Embracing Natural Phenomena

Authors:
Erik Vodenik, Simon Magerl
Reflex Glass And Volcanic Rock Embracing Natural Phenomena

Project in-detail

Set against the backdrop of Iceland's volcanic landscape, the design utilizes reflex glass and volcanic rock to create a multipurpose museum that invites exploration of natural phenomena such as the northern lights.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed for optimal views of the northern lights from office spaces.
02
Utilizes volcanic rock as a primary material, reflecting the local landscape.
03
Incorporates sliding walls for flexible use of the multipurpose space.
04
Features a green roof to enhance biodiversity and energy efficiency.
05
Integrates large glazed areas to foster transparency and connection to nature.

The Iceland Volcano Museum features a ground storey building organized around a central multipurpose space. Located in the volcanic region of Iceland, the museum functions as a cultural venue while offering unique opportunities for experiencing natural phenomena such as the northern lights. The design focuses on usability and accessibility, creating an environment that encourages a variety of activities.

Central Space and Facade

The heart of the building is the multipurpose space, which invites interaction by being surrounded by various office areas. The design incorporates height variations that enrich the experience within the central area. Sliding walls and a glazed roof allow for flexible use, whether for exhibitions or social gatherings. The facade showcases a tripartite horizontal design, which helps connect the building visually to its natural surroundings.

Office Integration and Views

Office spaces are designed to be open and connected to the central area. Large windows and glazed partition walls encourage transparency, creating a sense of community among users. With office walls angled at 60 degrees, workers enjoy direct views of the northern lights. This layout aims to strengthen the connection between the interior and the dramatic landscape, promoting an engaging work environment.

Materiality and Construction

Reflex glass and facade deposits crafted from volcanic rock are featured materials in the museum’s design. These selections aim to blend the structure into its environment while enhancing its overall appearance. The building's construction employs prefabricated techniques, emphasizing stability and efficiency while being environmentally conscious.

A green roof serves as a key design detail, deepening the building's relationship with the surrounding nature. This feature not only adds visual interest but also supports biodiversity and improves thermal performance. It embodies the principles of sustainable design while connecting the museum to the dynamic landscape of Iceland.

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

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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