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Volcano Exhibit with AAC and Aluminum in a Nature-Inspired Visitor Center

Author:
Zahra Ali-shapiro
Volcano Exhibit with AAC and Aluminum in a Nature-Inspired Visitor Center
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The Volcano Exhibit rises within a two-story tower constructed with AAC and aluminum, offering visitors a space for reflection and engagement with the surrounding Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Volcano Exhibit serves as the focal point within a two-story tower.
02
AAC construction provides lightweight, fire-resistant benefits.
03
Accessible ramp enhances visitor engagement and inclusivity.
04
Carefully framed vistas connect the interior with the landscape.
05
Communal areas promote social interaction and relaxation.

The design is set in a special landscape that encourages visitors to connect with their surroundings in a thoughtful way. The concept, known as "Dés Vu," focuses on heightening awareness of the present moment through a well-planned structure. This rest center along a popular path promotes reflection and interaction with nature. The architecture invites people into a rich experience, leading them on a journey that merges the built space with the landscape outside.

Spatial Organization

The arrangement of spaces is deliberate and helps guide visitors through different experiences that encourage contemplation and engagement. A key feature is the Volcano Exhibit, located in a two-story tower. This central point is reached through a ramp that accommodates all visitors, allowing everyone to participate fully. As they move upwards, changes in the size and acoustics of the spaces create an engaging atmosphere, deepening the connection to the natural world.

Visual Integration

Great care is taken with visual lines, which are set up to frame beautiful views of the surrounding environment. These carefully designed sightlines invite visitors to engage with the outdoors, making the landscape an important part of the experience. The way light and shadow play within the building adds to a calm and thoughtful atmosphere, enhancing how people feel while inside the space.

Materials and Sustainability

The chosen materials are key to supporting both practical use and visual appeal. Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) is used for the building's exterior. This material offers insulation, structural support, and fire safety, all while being lightweight. Using AAC aligns with goals for sustainability and energy efficiency. The roof includes prefabricated modular panels, which make installation easier and also allow for greenery. Aluminum cladding is selected for its ability to withstand weather, ensuring that the building remains durable over time.

Design Details

Every element of the design aims to create areas that foster connection and a sense of awareness. Communal spaces, like the café and lounge, are designed to be welcoming, encouraging social gatherings and relaxation. Attention to detail is evident throughout, as the combination of materials and spatial designs helps visitors engage fully with the environment. Carefully placed views guide the transition between the indoors and outdoors, enriching the entire visitor experience.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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