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Volcanic Rock and Glass Synthesis Creating Interactive Learning Spaces in Ecological Education Center

Author:
Adams Ruri
Volcanic Rock and Glass Synthesis Creating Interactive Learning Spaces in Ecological Education Center

Project in-detail

Constructed with volcanic rock and expansive glass elements, the design creates immersive educational spaces that engage visitors with the ecological dynamics of Mývatn and its volcanic environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced volcanic rock, enhancing its contextual relevance.
02
Large glass walls facilitate unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, blending inside and outside.
03
The building employs a broken massing approach to reduce its visual scale and enhance user intimacy.
04
Interior spaces are designed for interactive learning, promoting engagement with ecological dynamics.
05
Sustainable construction methods are prioritized, using materials that reflect the region’s geological heritage.
The Iceland Volcano Museum is designed as an educational facility located in Mývatn, Iceland, focusing on the region’s unique geological and biological features. The architecture merges functionality with an appreciation for the natural environment, creating an interactive space that highlights local avian migration and volcanic activity. The museum serves as both a visitor center and an educational resource, curating exhibitions that inform the public about the relationship between nature and volcanic landscapes.

Spatial Organization and Materiality
The building features a broken massing approach, breaking the structure into distinct volumes that reduce its visual impact on the landscape. This design decision enhances visitor navigation and contributes to an intimate atmosphere. The primary materials used include volcanic rock, glass, and concrete. Volcanic rock not only grounds the design in its location but also reflects the geological history of the area. Glass elements throughout the museum facilitate natural light and strengthen the connection between indoor spaces and the surrounding environment. Concrete serves a dual purpose, providing structural integrity and durability.

Unique Design Approaches
One of the distinctive aspects of the design is the integration of glass walls that dissolve the boundaries between the interior and exterior. This feature creates a seamless interaction with nature, allowing visitors to observe the landscape while engaging with the museum's exhibits. The building's layout emphasizes open spaces paired with intimate areas, promoting a dynamic learning environment that caters to educational programs and community engagement. The approach encourages exploration and reflection on the significance of biodiversity and ecological systems.

Environmental Integration
The museum effectively illustrates the symbiotic relationship between architecture and its environment. The design respects and celebrates the biodiversity of the region while providing an educational framework for visitors. The interaction of light and shadow within the spaces enhances the architectural experience, creating a constantly changing atmosphere that reflects the natural world's dynamism. This sensitivity to the setting is further highlighted in the selection of local materials and design elements that resonate with the cultural context.

For more detailed insights into the Iceland Volcano Museum, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation. Engaging with these elements will provide a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that inform this thoughtful educational facility.
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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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