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Volcanic Stone Structure with Grass Roof Emphasizing Community Engagement

Authors:
Laurianne Saffache, Barbara Pekmezian
Volcanic Stone Structure with Grass Roof Emphasizing Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Constructed from locally sourced volcanic stone and topped with a green roof, this museum seamlessly integrates with its landscape while serving as a vibrant hub for community engagement and cultural exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
The museum is constructed using locally sourced volcanic stone, providing a natural aesthetic that reflects the surrounding landscape.
02
A distinctive green roof is incorporated, promoting biodiversity and enhancing thermal insulation for energy efficiency.
03
The design features extensive glass facades to maximize natural light, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Community pathways are integrated into the landscape design, encouraging visitors to explore both the museum and its natural surroundings.
05
The building’s bent A-frame design not only adds to its visual appeal but also optimizes structural stability and adaptability to local weather conditions.
This architectural project is a thoughtfully designed museum located within a unique landscape that emphasizes a harmonious relationship between built structures and natural surroundings. The design represents an exploration of how architecture can reflect and enhance its environment, integrating seamlessly into the geological context while providing a distinguished cultural space. The fundamental function of this museum is to serve as a platform for education, exploration, and community engagement, allowing visitors to interact with art and nature in a setting that fosters a sense of wonder and appreciation.

The project manifests as a museum inspired by volcanic formations, taking cues from the organic shapes found in the natural world. This concept translates into an architectural form characterized by gentle slopes and undulating roofs that evoke the imagery of a landscape in motion. This design approach is particularly unique because it moves away from traditional museum architecture that often emphasizes stark, angular forms, opting instead for a more naturalistic aesthetic that conveys a sense of fluidity and connection with the earth.

At the core of the design are important details that contribute to both functionality and the user experience. The layout includes a variety of spaces such as exhibition halls, community areas, and cafes, all arranged to facilitate an intuitive flow of movement. The design prioritizes natural light, achieved through expansive glass facades that invite the outside in and foster transparency between indoor activities and the surrounding landscape. This use of glass is not merely a stylistic choice; it enhances the immersive experience of visiting the museum, as visitors can continually engage with nature while inside.

Another critical aspect of the design is the incorporation of local volcanic rock, which not only nods to the site’s geological context but also promotes sustainability through the use of locally sourced materials. This attention to materiality reinforces the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility while creating a visually cohesive structure that resonates with its surroundings. Complementing the stonework is the inclusion of a green grass roof, which serves multiple functions, including additional insulation and promoting biodiversity. This feature also underscores the museum's ecological approach, as it integrates the building further into the site, blending with the landscape and reducing its visual impact.

Accessibility is another vital consideration within the project, with pathways designed to encourage visitors to explore both the museum and the broader landscape. The layout facilitates access for various demographics, including families and individuals looking for a leisurely experience. The careful arrangement of outdoor spaces also invites social interaction, allowing for gatherings and informal meetings in a context that promotes community engagement.

The elevation and overall silhouette of the building are critical in framing views of the surrounding landscape, with each angle presenting a new interpretation of the museum's relationship to the earth. The design’s ample use of space and structural elements showcases a commitment to creating an open and inviting atmosphere that contrasts with more enclosed, traditional museum spaces.

In examining the various architectural plans, sections, and designs, one can appreciate the depth of thought that has gone into this project. The architectural ideas are not only about aesthetics but also emphasize functionality and the experiential quality of the space. Each element coalesces to create an inviting atmosphere for visitors while serving educational and cultural purposes.

This project stands as an example of how contemporary architecture can evolve by drawing inspiration from the environment, utilizing organic forms, and prioritizing sustainability. The distinct design approaches offer meaningful reflections on the relationship between architecture and nature, inviting readers to engage with the project presentation for a deeper understanding of its architectural plans and unique features. Exploring these elements can provide valuable insights into how architecture can foster a connection to place while serving essential community functions.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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