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Translucent Glass Facade and Charred Wooden Shingles Define A Cultural Hub In Iceland

Authors:
Pooya Katani, Setareh Abbasi moghaddam fard tehrani, Farzaneh Salehi, Ali Khodabande abhari
Translucent Glass Facade and Charred Wooden Shingles Define A Cultural Hub In Iceland

Project in-detail

Translucent glass facades and charred wooden shingles create a harmonious interplay with Iceland's rugged landscape, serving as an engaging cultural and educational space that immerses visitors in the region's unique natural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent glass facades create a seamless connection between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a distinctive visual texture that echoes local building traditions.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to sustainability while offering versatile interior layout options.
04
The bent A-frame design not only optimizes structural stability but also reflects the geometric forms found in Iceland's natural scenery.
05
Integrated outdoor pathways encourage exploration of the landscape, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and nature.
The IV Museum, located in Iceland, showcases a thoughtful integration of architecture and the natural landscape, reflecting the geographical and cultural narratives of the region. This project represents a contemporary approach to museum design, embodying the themes of ice and volcanic activity—two dominant elements of Iceland's natural identity. The building serves as a space for cultural engagement, education, and artistic expression, allowing visitors to explore and understand the complexities of Iceland's environment and heritage.

The design of the IV Museum revolves around a central concept that pays homage to the geological phenomena of the region. With a layout comprised of multiple galleries, each dedicated to various aspects such as history, culture, and art, the museum provides a versatile platform for exhibitions and community activities. The intention is to facilitate a seamless interaction between the exhibits and the natural surroundings, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse narratives that Iceland has to offer.

One of the remarkable aspects of the IV Museum is its materiality. The design utilizes a carefully selected palette that includes glass, concrete, steel, and wood. The extensive use of glass creates transparency, allowing for natural light to flood the interior spaces while offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This choice not only blurs the lines between the indoors and outdoors but also fosters a comforting connection to nature. Concrete and steel provide the structural integrity that enhances durability against Iceland’s often harsh weather conditions, while wood introduces warmth and a tactile quality to the interior, drawing from traditional Icelandic craftsmanship.

The functional organization of the museum is strategically planned to enhance accessibility and visitor flow. Upon entering the building, visitors are greeted with a spacious lobby that serves as a central hub connecting the various galleries and communal areas, such as cafés and lounges. This design encourages exploration and social interaction, promoting a sense of community among visitors who engage with the exhibitions.

Each of the museum's galleries is designed not only to house artwork and artifacts but also to evoke the essence of Iceland’s dramatic landscape. The architectural forms resemble natural features, creating an environment that is both inspiring and educational. In many instances, the design draws inspiration from volcanic rock formations and glacial structures, embodying the geological underpinnings of the region in a way that is visually cohesive.

The IV Museum's approach to light and space enhances the overall visitor experience. The incorporation of skylights and strategically placed windows allows natural light to illuminate exhibitions organically, changing the atmosphere throughout the day. This dynamic interplay between light and architecture fosters a more engaging experience for museum-goers, inviting them to witness the transformation of spaces as the sun moves across the sky.

Furthermore, the outdoor spaces surrounding the museum are designed to encourage interaction with the landscape. Pathways lead visitors to the exterior, where they can experience the unique Icelandic terrain firsthand. This thoughtful integration of the indoor and outdoor environments not only enhances the usability of the museum but also serves to educate visitors about the delicate balance of nature in Iceland.

In summary, the IV Museum represents a significant contribution to contemporary architecture, offering a functional, culturally rich space that invites exploration and appreciation of Iceland's natural heritage. Its thoughtful design weaves together the concepts of ice and volcano, translating these themes into a unique architectural language. For those interested in a deeper look at the project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall design will provide valuable insights into this remarkable architectural endeavor. We invite you to delve into the project presentation to discover more about this innovative museum and its potential impact on the community and visitors alike.
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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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