Nested Calderas

Situated in the heart of Iceland, in a volcanic region of nested calderas, the project tries to cater to the geological nature of the site: a stark moon-like desert within which life can flourish sheltered by its own formation. After a three day hike through the cold flat, the tourist arrives at the monolithic ancient wall and sees steam rising from inside. From all points of arrival, he is enticed to go on a final journey, along the wall, until he reaches the entrance.

The break in the wall is populated by a camping area connecting the interior to the exterior. On the inside, the tourist finds shelter - an oasis in the middle of Iceland. Inside the wall there is a settlement. Several buildings populate the caldera, all gravitating around the central thermal pool: two lodge buildings, a spa area, a library, admin spaces and residences and above all, a central building for common gatherings that has a greenhouse facing the pool.

A harmony between rectangular buildings and the circular elements (wall and pool) create a narrative of distinct outdoor spaces microclimates for swimming, walks and other outdoor activities.

For the second part of the project, a technical report had to be created, along with a deliberate energy strategy, which included construction details, structural drawings and energy diagrams (including air, water and heating).

The details explain the main construction characters of the building. The first detail describes the tapered wall - concrete mixed with large aggregate from the site is poured on top of gabion baskets and sandblasted before the curing process is complete, to create the ancient character of the wall. The second detail shows the interface between the pool and the building. Both details contain environmental strategies, such as the insulated louvered window. Structural diagrams of the building are also shown.

As part of the technical report, certain energy requirements had to be met. An energy data sheet was constantly used and different mechanical strategies were explored to meet the numbers. Geothermal heating was a good way to take advantage of the site. Heating would be extracted from the thermal pool and distributed in the interior spaces. Different climate zones, HRV units and water collection systems were also used. Sun and wind studies determined the layout of the buildings, so certain programs could benefit from sun at certain times of the day. The entrance for example is on the minimum wind path, to prevent wind from going in.