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Weaved Brick Facade and Bronze Cladding Nestled in a Volcanic Landscape For A Visitor Center

Author:
Mahmoud Elmoussa
Weaved Brick Facade and Bronze Cladding Nestled in a Volcanic Landscape For A Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Set against a dramatic volcanic backdrop, the weaved brick facade and bronze cladding of the visitor center create a seamless connection to the landscape while providing essential amenities for hikers and tourists exploring the unique geological features of Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
The weaved brick facade reflects local craftsmanship while enhancing thermal performance.
02
Bronze cladding develops a natural patina, integrating the building with its environment over time.
03
The layout features a circular movement to simulate the experience of exploring lava flows.
04
Natural light is strategically incorporated to highlight the interior's volcanic texture elements.
05
Sustainable materials such as blackened wood contribute to passive heating strategies.

The architectural project "Roasted in Lava" is situated in a volcanic landscape near HVJERFAL volcano and Lake Myvatn in Iceland. The building serves as a visitor center, offering a space for hikers and tourists to engage with the surrounding geological features. The design emphasizes a connection between the architecture and its environment, reflecting the rich volcanic history of the area.

The building's layout facilitates a journey that enhances visitor experience, allowing for seamless movement between indoor and outdoor spaces. The architecture integrates both functional and aesthetic elements that resonate with the site’s natural characteristics. Predominantly circular in organization, the design invites users to explore the space progressively, starting from an entry point through to interactive and communal areas.

Material selection is a critical aspect of the project, with the facade constructed from weaved brick, symbolizing a connection to local craftsmanship and geological history. The use of bronze cladding for the roofing contributes a unique visual contrast and durability, while the incorporation of black burnt hardwood adds warmth and thermal efficiency. These materials not only fulfill structural requirements but also engage with the environmental context, reinforcing the project's location.

The primary function of "Roasted in Lava" includes dining areas with views of the surrounding landscape, exhibition spaces that educate visitors, and changing facilities for trekkers. The outdoor lounge extends the building's functionality into the natural setting, promoting interaction with the environment.

Sustainability is a foundational principle in this design. Awareness of the local climate influences thermal performance through passive heating solutions such as thermal mass due to the material choices. Moreover, the layout encourages social engagement and community involvement, enhancing the project's relevance to both visitors and locals.

The project stands out due to its strong thematic connection with its surroundings, integrating geology into its architecture. The spatial arrangement directs the visitor's journey through the building, emphasizing a narrative that aligns with the volcanic landscape. By focusing on unique materiality, the project represents both a functional facility and a sensory experience that deepens visitor interaction with Iceland's geological features.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural design aspects, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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