Magmarama Building, mining museum is an innovative architectural project designed by Norwegian architect Manuela Hardy, representing a sophisticated interpretation of sedimentology principles in architectural form. The museum, spanning 1,935.5 square meters, features a distinctive design that seamlessly integrates with its surrounding landscape through a partially subterranean structure that emerges from the ground in a manner reminiscent of mountain formations. The building's unique composition consists of split volumes positioned on opposite sides, creating a valley-like opening that maximizes natural light penetration and provides strategic views of the surrounding mountainous terrain. The structure employs a sophisticated combination of concrete and natural rock elements, with the concrete surfaces featuring a distinctive wood-grain texture achieved through specialized forming techniques. The museum's exterior is characterized by extensive glass surfaces supported by steel structures, while the sloping roof surfaces are clad in bright larvikite granite with a broken surface finish. The interior spans three levels and incorporates carefully angled window surfaces that respond to their directional orientation, optimizing natural light capture particularly during darker winter months. The design successfully addresses the challenge of creating an inviting underground space through innovative use of light and reflection, while the warm-toned concrete flooring throughout the museum has been carefully sanded and surface treated to enhance the visitor experience. This Iron A' Design Award-winning project demonstrates exceptional achievement in architectural design, particularly in its response to site conditions and integration of geological themes into its formal expression.
architecture mining museum sedimentology sustainable design underground structure natural light
CITATION : "Adam Dawson. 'Magmarama Building, Mining Museum.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=449490 (Accessed on July 17, 2025)"
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