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Turf-Covered Structure With Concrete Walls Embracing Geological Narratives and Community Engagement

Authors:
Ali savero Harahap, Ama hayyu Marzuki
Turf-Covered Structure With Concrete Walls Embracing Geological Narratives and Community Engagement

Project in-detail

With a turf-covered roof that seamlessly merges into the volcanic landscape and concrete walls reflecting the region's geological heritage, the museum serves as an engaging hub for education and exploration of Iceland’s natural phenomena.
5 key facts about this project
01
The turf-covered roof enhances biodiversity while blending the structure into the volcanic landscape.
02
Concrete walls are designed to symbolize and reflect the geological history of the region.
03
Interactive exhibits engage visitors with the area's unique volcanic activity and environmental themes.
04
The museum's circular design promotes an inclusive visitor experience, echoing natural forms of volcanic craters.
05
Natural light is strategically integrated to create diverse atmospheres throughout the exhibition spaces.
The Sunken Volcano Museum is an architectural project designed to immerse visitors in the geological and natural beauty of Hreyfll, Iceland. This museum serves as both an educational facility and a place of reflection, representing the interplay between mankind and nature through its responsive design. By harmonizing with the landscape, the museum seeks to encourage a deeper understanding of the area's geological history and cultural significance.

Functionally, the museum operates as an educational space where visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the volcanic activity of the region and its impact on the environment. The design facilitates a communal learning experience, integrating various thematic narratives that guide guests through the complex history of volcanic science and local ecology. By doing so, it not only informs but also inspires curiosity and awareness of environmental issues.

The architectural layout emphasizes connection and interaction. Upon entering the museum, visitors traverse a semi-constricted corridor leading into a series of exhibition areas that gradually expand, creating a sense of discovery. The circular form of the building, reminiscent of volcanic craters, reinforces the museum's theme while creating a unique visitor experience. This design encourages exploration and engagement with the exhibits, as the fluid transitions between spaces draw guests into a comprehensive narrative about the volcanic landscape.

A notable feature of the Sunken Volcano Museum is its materiality. Concrete forms the primary structural shell, providing a sense of permanence that echoes the stability and resilience of geological formations. This is complemented by timber elements in the interior, which add warmth and texture, inviting visitors into the space while ensuring an intimate atmosphere. The incorporation of a turf roof not only facilitates environmental sustainability but also blends the building into its natural surroundings, promoting biodiversity and preserving the visual continuity of the landscape.

The careful attention to light play within the museum enhances its educational purposes. Specifically designed openings allow natural light to filter into the exhibition spaces, creating shifting shadows that evoke the dynamic quality of geology. This thoughtful integration invites visitors to reflect on the natural phenomena being presented and reinforces the connection between the exhibits and the outside landscape.

The sunken aspect of the museum is particularly notable. By allowing part of the structure to be below ground, the design minimizes visual impact and helps maintain the integrity of the natural topography. This approach also establishes a physical connection to the earth, symbolizing humanity's relationship to geological processes. Visitors are encouraged to descend into the exhibition space, engaging in a journey that reflects the geological layers of the earth.

The unique design approaches employed in the Sunken Volcano Museum demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, education, and community engagement. The circular architectural form and thoughtful spatial organization foster a narrative that connects people to the environment around them. By prioritizing natural materials and energy-efficient design, the project stands as a model for future architectural endeavors in sensitive ecological contexts.

For further insights into the various aspects of this architectural project, consider exploring elements like architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs. These materials can offer a clearer understanding of the innovative ideas and methods that have shaped the Sunken Volcano Museum, providing depth to the experience of learning and exploring this remarkable space.
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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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