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Subterranean Volcanic Museum With Stone Cladding and Natural Light Integration

Authors:
Veronika Glazunova, Ivan Tsikolenko, Anastasia Kostyl, Aleksey Dmitriev
Subterranean Volcanic Museum With Stone Cladding and Natural Light Integration

Project in-detail

Incorporating a subterranean design that utilizes stone cladding for thermal efficiency and incorporates natural light, the museum enhances visitors' understanding of Iceland's volcanic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a subterranean design to reduce visual impact on the landscape.
02
Incorporates stone cladding that reflects local geological features.
03
Maximizes natural light through strategically placed glass elements.
04
Features a visitor pathway that simulates geological exploration.
05
Integrates thermal efficiency within the underground structure.
The Volcano Museum architectural project is situated in Iceland, strategically positioned near significant geological features, including the Grjótagjá Cave and Hverfjall Volcano. This facility serves as a dedicated space for educating visitors about the volcanic landscape and its cultural implications. The design integrates both exhibition areas and visitor amenities while maintaining a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment.

The project emphasizes a connection between architecture and geology, with a largely subterranean structure that reflects the hidden depths of the earth. By partly embedding the museum within the landscape, the design minimizes visual impact and takes advantage of natural insulation, thereby enhancing energy efficiency. The concept of exploring geological layers is mirrored in the spatial organization, allowing visitors to engage with the exhibitions in a manner that reflects the earth’s formation processes.

Innovative Spatial Organization
The layout of the Volcano Museum features a series of interconnected exhibition corridors, categorized as “Cave,” “Loop,” “Alley,” and “Forest” exhibitions. This thematic zoning facilitates a dynamic visitor experience, allowing for fluid movement through various geological narratives. The underground exhibition space serves as the centerpiece, reinforcing the concept of exploration through geological layers. Additionally, the design prioritizes visual connections to the surrounding volcanic landscape, establishing a dialogue between the interior space and the exterior environment.

Unique Architectural Approaches
The architectural approach of the Volcano Museum is characterized by its material choices and structural configuration. The use of concrete, reinforced concrete, stone cladding, and glass is deliberate, aimed at reflecting the rugged nature of Icelandic geology. These materials not only provide structural integrity but also foster a tactile connection to the landscape. Key architectural features include angular and fluid geometries that resonate with the natural topography, helping to integrate the building as a continuation of the earth's formations.

The transparency created by strategic glass placement allows natural light to filter into the space, further enhancing the visitor experience while providing panoramic views of the volcanic terrain. The combination of these design elements facilitates a nuanced interpretation of the natural context, encouraging visitors to appreciate both the architectural and geological aspects of the site.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design of the Volcano Museum, readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation. Engaging with the comprehensive architectural ideas underlying this design will provide a deeper understanding of its unique contributions to the field of architecture and its role in elucidating Iceland’s geological heritage.
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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
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