Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Wavy Glazed Structure Featuring Sustainable Timber and Natural Materials for Volcanic Education

Author:
Petros Mouchasiris
Wavy Glazed Structure Featuring Sustainable Timber and Natural Materials for Volcanic Education

Project in-detail

The wavy, glazed form of the structure mirrors the surrounding volcanic landscape, utilizing sustainable timber elements and natural materials to create an immersive experience for visitors exploring the geological wonders of Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure features a wavy roofline that mimics the surrounding volcanic topography.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used extensively for both aesthetics and structural strength.
03
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a texture that harmonizes with the landscape.
04
Large glazed panels frame views of the Hverfjall Volcano, creating a seamless connection with nature.
05
The design includes outdoor learning spaces that facilitate direct interaction with the natural environment.
The Volcano Museum, envisioned to be located near the Hverfjall Volcano in Northern Iceland, is an architectural project that seeks to integrate human experience with the unique geological context of its surroundings. This museum stands as a cultural hub aimed at educating visitors about volcanic activity while fostering a deep appreciation for Iceland’s remarkable natural environment. The design is informed by the interplay of landscape and architecture, emphasizing sustainability and local identity.

Functionally, the Volcano Museum is intended to serve multiple purposes. It will house exhibition halls dedicated to showcasing interactive displays about geological phenomena and the cultural narratives that intertwine with the volcanic landscape. Furthermore, the inclusion of social spaces such as a café allows visitors to engage not only with the exhibits but also with one another, thereby enhancing the communal aspect of the museum experience. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces promotes exploration and discovery, fostering a relationship between visitors and the natural world that surrounds them.

The architectural design reflects the features of the Icelandic landscape, with an engaging roofline that mimics the rolling shapes of volcanic formations. This wavy roof is instrumental in creating a visual dialogue between the building and its environment, while also encompassing architectural strategies for natural ventilation and sunlight optimization. The glazed panels utilized in the design allow abundant natural light to penetrate the interior, creating warm and inviting spaces. These elements collectively promote an airy atmosphere that encourages visitors to linger and explore.

Critical details of the project can be seen in its material palette, which has been carefully chosen to resonate with local conditions. Sustainable wooden elements sourced from regional timber not only serve as structural components but also add warmth and offer visual continuity with the surrounding ecosystems. The integration of steel and reinforced concrete provides essential stability, ensuring that the museum is resilient to the region’s geological dynamics. These materials not only support structural integrity but also reflect a respect for local craftsmanship and resources.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, especially in the relationship established between the indoor exhibits and the outdoor surroundings. The incorporation of external spaces allows visitors to experience the natural landscape directly, making the museum a bridge between education and nature. Through careful landscape integration, the architectural design is attentive to the flow of space, inviting visitors to transition seamlessly between indoors and outdoors. This approach enhances the learning experience, as it encourages exploration of both the museum's exhibits and the surrounding geological features.

The Volcano Museum ultimately embodies a commitment to sustainability and environmental mindfulness. By utilizing local materials and designing for minimal environmental impact, the project addresses contemporary concerns about ecological stewardship. The thoughtful articulation of form and space creates a sense of place that acknowledges and celebrates the inherent beauty of Iceland's volcanic terrain.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, potential visitors and stakeholders are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the Volcano Museum. By doing so, one can gain deeper insights into the architectural concepts that define this unique endeavor in the heart of Iceland's stunning landscapes. The engagement with both cultural heritage and geological education makes this project a meaningful addition to the region, highlighting the dialogue between architecture and nature.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 16544 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