The Black Lava Fields Visitor Center features an innovative design located in an area characterized by volcanic rock formations. It serves as a space for visitors to connect with the natural environment, offering a place where people can learn and appreciate the unique landscape surrounding them. The building’s design concept reflects an understanding of how the construction can harmonize with and respond to its geological context.

Geometric Inspiration

The design is influenced by the sharp textures and forms of the volcanic landscape. Jagged edges and uneven shapes are incorporated into the building, creating a visual link between the architecture and the natural environment. This approach captures the essence of the site, allowing visitors to feel the dynamic nature of the landscape.

Material Interaction

Translucent concrete is a key feature of the visitor center. It allows light to filter through, creating a pleasant ambiance inside. This choice of material enriches the experience of being in the building, as it enhances how visitors perceive the space. Light plays across the surfaces, adding warmth and depth to the interior.

Terrace Design

The outdoor terrace extends from the main structure and maintains the design's organic lines. Charred timber is used, matching the colors found in the volcanic rock. This connection to the local environment makes the space inviting and relatable for visitors.

The terrace includes a sunken fire pit that encourages people to gather and enjoy their surroundings. By lowering this feature into the ground, the design reinforces a link with the lava fields, making the area feel more intimate. Visitors can sit by the fire pit and take in the landscape, enhancing their engagement with both the site and each other.