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Resonating Stone Sculptures Within Volcanic Sound Chambers

Authors:
Miranda Vukasovic, Kamilla Csegzi
Resonating Stone Sculptures Within Volcanic Sound Chambers

Project in-detail

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

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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

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