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Resonating Stone Sculptures Within Volcanic Sound Chambers

Authors:
Miranda Vukasovic, Kamilla Csegzi
Resonating Stone Sculptures Within Volcanic Sound Chambers
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Cone-shaped sound chambers constructed from stone resonate with the winds of Hverfjall, creating an immersive acoustic experience while providing a platform for contemplation and connection with the volcanic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cone-shaped sound chambers amplify natural wind sounds.
02
Vertical stone blades create varying sound frequencies.
03
Red lighting filters through stone, enhancing nighttime visibility.
04
The design emphasizes direct connection to the volcanic landscape.
05
Visitors experience a seamless transition from nature to architecture.

"The Sound of Hverfjall" is located in the volcanic landscape of Hverfjall and focuses on the connection between natural elements and constructed spaces. The overarching design concept revolves around the interaction between stone and wind, creating an immersive sound experience. By reconfiguring elements already present on-site, the structure presents itself as a sculptural answer to the unique features of the volcano.

Geometry and Form

The structure features a circular spine that gradually rises, forming an elevated platform along with a sheltered area beneath. This design emphasizes a shift from the natural ground to a structured form, guiding visitors to engage with the environment in a more direct manner. This thoughtful arrangement achieves a relationship between built and natural elements, allowing a tangible connection with the landscape.

Acoustic Features

At the heart of the design are cone-shaped sound chambers that are deliberately positioned to capture and enhance the sounds of wind. These chambers work as resonators, enriching the auditory experience for those who visit. The use of vertical stone blades with varying gaps creates different sound frequencies. This dynamic approach encourages exploration as individuals move through spaces that respond to the natural sounds around them.

Material Selection

The primary material throughout the design is stone. This choice strengthens the link to the Hverfjall landscape, supporting the acoustic intentions of the project. Using stone not only ties the structure to the geographical context but also plays a vital role in enhancing the sound generated within the space. The weight and permanence of stone provide a grounding element, connecting people to the land.

Light and Atmosphere

Lighting contributes significantly to the overall experience, with soft red lights streaming through the stone. This interaction between light and material creates an inviting atmosphere, especially at night when the structure stands out against the backdrop of the landscape. This thoughtful use of light enhances the character of the space while encouraging visitors to linger and explore.

Sound, light, and the surrounding landscape come together in this thoughtful design, prompting visitors to engage with both the natural world and the constructed environment around them. The experience unfolds as individuals discover how architecture can blend with sound to deepen their appreciation of the site.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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