Icelandic architects propose using lava as construction material

Icelandic architects Arnhildur Palmadottir and her son Arnar Skarpheoinsson are developing a futuristic concept to utilize volcanic lava as a sustainable construction material. The idea, conceived by the founders of the Reykjavik-based firm s. ap Arkitektar, aims to transform the global construction industry by providing an alternative to carbon-intensive materials like concrete and steel.

Inspired by massive eruptions such as Holuhraun, the duo envisions using technologies like 3D printing, robotics, and controlled lava flow direction to shape the molten rock into structural forms. They suggest that a single lava flow could potentially provide enough material to build the foundations of an entire city within weeks. However, due to the extreme temperatures and required technological advancements, they do not expect this vision to become a reality until approximately the year 2150.