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Translucent Steel and Concrete Structure Embracing Geological Heritage

Authors:
Nicole Venegas, Camila Rosas
Translucent Steel and Concrete Structure Embracing Geological Heritage

Project in-detail

Rising 16.7 meters, the concrete and translucent steel structure harmonizes with Iceland's volcanic landscape, creating a unique educational space focused on geological history and exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rising to 16.7 meters, the museum offers panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
The design incorporates both public and underground private spaces for coworking and meetings.
03
Translucent steel elements create a dynamic interplay of light within the museum.
04
The structure's concrete form emphasizes durability while complementing natural features.
05
Educational exhibits focus specifically on the geological history of Iceland.

The Iceland Volcano Museum is located near Myvatn in Iceland and aims to provide insights into the region's volcanic landscape and its historical stories. It serves as an educational center where visitors can learn about volcanic activity. The design concept emphasizes a close relationship between the building and its natural setting.

Architectural Concept

The building appears as a large box made of concrete, incorporated into a translucent steel structure. This choice of materials highlights a modern approach while being considerate of the surrounding environment. The combination of concrete and steel reflects a thoughtful design that connects the structure with the site's geological features.

Functional Zoning

Inside, the museum is organized into distinct public and private areas. The underground sections include coworking spaces, meeting rooms, and offices. This layout utilizes the depth of the land and minimizes impact on the surface. The design caters to a variety of uses, creating an engaging space for both visitors and employees.

Vertical Presence

Rising to a height of 16.7 meters, the museum captures attention and enhances its visibility in the landscape. This height provides views that connect visitors with the surrounding volcanic formations. The translucent steel allows natural light to enter the building, ensuring a bright yet connected environment that enriches the visitor experience.

Educational Integration

With a focus on education, the design encourages exploration and learning about Iceland's geological history. The museum supports interaction among visitors, fostering a modern learning atmosphere. The architectural work aims to provide an immersive experience that ties together the building and the landscape it inhabits.

Large expanses of glazing in the translucent steel framing invite panoramic views, linking the interior with the dramatic volcanic landscape outside. This feature enhances the connection between what the museum offers and the natural beauty surrounding it.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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