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Volcanic Stone Structure With Solstice Alignment Featuring Gabbro Elements and Natural Illumination

Authors:
Naeun Song, Eunsu Jang, Minseung Choi
Volcanic Stone Structure With Solstice Alignment Featuring Gabbro Elements and Natural Illumination

Project in-detail

Constructed with volcanic stone that reflects the surrounding landscape and thoughtfully aligned with the winter solstice, the museum offers an immersive experience into Iceland's geological heritage through engaging exhibition spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced volcanic stone to reflect the surrounding landscape.
02
Features careful alignment with the winter solstice, enhancing the connection to natural cycles.
03
Incorporates a colonnade of stones that serves both structural and thematic purposes.
04
Utilizes a sunken design to represent Iceland's varied topography and create immersive spaces.
05
Exhibition spaces are designed for optimal natural light, reducing reliance on artificial illumination.
The Icelandic Volcano Museum serves as a thoughtful exploration of Iceland's unique geological landscape, designed to engage the public with the history and significance of volcanic activity in the region. This project represents a celebration of Iceland's natural environment and cultural heritage, effectively bridging the gap between education and experience. The function of the museum extends beyond that of a conventional space for displaying artifacts; it aims to immerse visitors in the dynamic relationship between the land and its geological phenomena.

Central to the project is the integration of the architectural design with the natural landscape of Iceland, utilizing local materials such as volcanic stone and reinforced concrete. The building's form reflects the surrounding topography, adopting geometric shapes inspired by natural elements. The use of volcanic stone for both aesthetic and structural purposes emphasizes the significance of the land itself. This choice not only grounds the structure in its environment but also tells a story about the geological processes that have shaped the country over millennia.

The layout of the museum features an atrium that allows natural light to flood the interior spaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This design decision enhances energy efficiency while fostering a strong connection between the indoors and outdoors. Natural illumination highlights the prominent exhibition areas dedicated to showcasing the historical context of Iceland's volcanic activity, making educational content more accessible and engaging for visitors.

Another important detail in the design is the intentional alignment of the building with the winter solstice. This alignment reflects a respect for ancient traditions and their connection to the cycles of nature, further positioning the museum as a cultural landmark that honors the past while educating future generations. The inclusion of sunken spaces in the design visually represents the geographical variations of Iceland’s landscape, creating a multi-dimensional experience that resonates with visitors.

Unique design approaches are found throughout the project. The colonnade of stones acts as both a structural element and a thematic representation of ancient monuments. This element invites visitors to engage with the architecture in a tactile manner, reinforcing the notion that the museum is not just a space for passive observation but an interactive experience that stimulates curiosity.

The emphasis on sustainability in the design of the Icelandic Volcano Museum reflects the growing importance of ecological considerations in architecture. By utilizing materials that are both locally sourced and inherently durable, the project minimizes environmental impact while paying homage to the geological characteristics of the region. The structure ultimately embodies a philosophy that aligns architectural integrity with environmental consciousness.

Exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will further illuminate the intricacies of this thoughtful project. The design embodies a distinct perspective on how architecture can serve both educational and cultural functions within a community. Interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation for further insights into its architectural ideas and execution.
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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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