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Sustainable Green Roof Integration With Reinforced Concrete and Natural Light in Volcanic Landscape Museum

Author:
Denis Merkulov
Sustainable Green Roof Integration With Reinforced Concrete and Natural Light in Volcanic Landscape Museum

Project in-detail

Integrating a green roof with reinforced concrete and extensive glazing, the museum offers an interactive educational space that immerses visitors in the geological narrative of Iceland's volcanic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a green roof that mimics the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Utilizes reinforced concrete and extensive glazing to enhance natural light.
03
Features an expansive exhibition hall designed for flexible educational use.
04
Incorporates local vegetation into the landscaping for ecological sustainability.
05
Optimized building orientation maximizes views of Iceland's volcanic terrain.
The Iceland Volcano Museum is an architectural project situated in the volcanic landscape of Iceland. The design focuses on creating an interactive space that educates visitors about the geological and cultural significance of volcanicity in the region. The museum serves as both an exhibition hall and an educational center, dedicated to exploring the history and impact of volcanic activity in Icelandic culture and ecology.

The architectural layout consists of a primary exhibition hall surrounded by smaller functional rooms, including educational facilities and visitor amenities. The orientation of the building, aligned north-south, optimizes natural light penetration and provides stunning views of the nearby volcanic formations. This careful planning enhances the visitor experience while ensuring sustainability in design.

Innovative Integration of Nature and Architecture

A distinctive feature of the Iceland Volcano Museum is the integration of landscaping elements within the architectural framework. The building incorporates a green roof planted with local vegetation, seamlessly blending with the surrounding landscape. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to energy efficiency by providing thermal insulation and promoting biodiversity. The use of reinforced concrete and extensive glazing further defines the building's silhouette while facilitating a natural flow of light and air throughout the interior spaces.

The inclusion of vertical glass panels in the exhibition hall creates a connection between the indoors and the outer environment, allowing visitors to engage with the volcanic landscape directly. The lightweight structural supports, designed to evoke the forms of natural rock formations, enhance the workspace's overall openness and fluidity, making the architectural design resonant with its geological context.

Functional Architectural Components

The primary exhibition area is designed as a flexible space that can accommodate various forms of displays and activities. Its high ceiling and open layout allow for the installation of diverse exhibit formats, including artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations focused on the volcanic history of Iceland. Adjacent educational rooms provide space for workshops and seminars, reinforcing the museum's function as an educational hub.

Visitor circulation is thoughtfully considered within the design, with clear pathways guiding guests through the museum. This layout facilitates an engaging exploration of the exhibits while ensuring accessibility throughout the building. The careful attention to material selection, including reinforced concrete and glass, complements the functional requirements while emphasizing a minimalist architectural aesthetic.

As you explore the Iceland Volcano Museum, consider the architectural plans and sections that reveal the intricate design details and innovative approaches utilized in this project. Delve into the architectural designs and ideas that shape this unique space, enriching your understanding of how architecture can harmonize with nature while serving educational purposes in a cultural context.
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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
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