Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Volcano-Shaped Exhibition Hall with Glass Top in the Rift Valley

Authors:
Junjie Yan, Linhan Feng
Volcano-Shaped Exhibition Hall with Glass Top in the Rift Valley
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Shaped like a volcano, the exhibition hall with a glass top offers panoramic views of the rift valley while serving as an educational center focused on Iceland’s volcanic heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Volcano-shaped exhibition hall reflects the region’s geological features.
02
Glass top allows for 360-degree views of the rift valley.
03
Spiral rise exhibition channel enhances visitor flow and engagement.
04
Designed with minimal landscape alteration to protect existing terrain.
05
Utilizes an arch structure to integrate with the natural environment.

The Iceland Volcano Museum is located in the rift valley of Iceland, designed to blend with the dramatic landscape. It serves as an educational center that highlights the region’s volcanic heritage. The architecture takes inspiration from volcanic forms, creating a visual and experiential link to the natural world. Visitors will find that the design encourages exploration and understanding of Iceland's unique geological features.

Architectural Concept

The museum is defined by a volcano-shaped exhibition hall, which reflects the geological significance of the area. This design choice creates an immediate connection between the building and the landscape. The form of the hall not only stands out but also enhances the visitor experience. It immerses guests in the cultural and natural story of the region, making them feel a part of its unique environment.

Spatial Layout

Inside, the multipurpose exhibition hall features a spiral rise exhibition channel, covering an area of 220 square meters. This layout is designed to guide guests as they move upward, ultimately leading to a viewing platform. From this platform, visitors can enjoy wide-ranging views of the rift valley. The movement through the space is intentional, providing an engaging journey that connects people to both the exhibits and the spectacular scenery outside.

Natural Light and Atmosphere

Natural light plays a vital role in the museum's design. A glass top in the sightseeing area allows for clear views while keeping visitors comfortable indoors. This feature not only enhances the visual experience but also connects the interior to the outdoor landscape. Visitors can take in the panoramic views of the rift valley while learning about the geological features that make Iceland unique.

Structural Expression

The architectural design resembles an arch bridge, which reflects the natural forms it aims to represent. This structural choice supports spacious interiors while maintaining harmony with the surrounding site. The relationship between the form and function results in a design that feels appropriate for its location. It serves as both an educational facility and a representation of Iceland’s geological importance.

In addition to the strong natural light, carefully positioned auxiliary lighting enhances the atmosphere within the exhibition spaces. This ensures that the halls are well-lit while maintaining a warm and inviting feel, essential for fostering exploration and learning.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy