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Charred Wood and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Community Pavilion Amidst Volcanic Landscapes

Author:
Rempt Van der donk
Charred Wood and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Community Pavilion Amidst Volcanic Landscapes

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood and cross-laminated timber, the pavilion stands as a functional coffee shop and observatory, seamlessly integrated into the volcanic landscape of Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to enhance structural integrity and aesthetic presence.
02
Integrates geothermal heating to promote energy efficiency in a cold climate.
03
Employs charred wooden shingles to improve weather resistance and sustainability.
04
Features large glass panels for unobstructed views of the volcanic landscape.
05
Constructed with prefabricated elements to reduce on-site waste and construction time.

The Red Dot Pavilion is an architectural project situated near the Hverfjall volcano in Iceland. This facility operates as a coffee shop and observatory, designed to integrate with the surrounding volcanic landscape while providing a comfortable space for visitors. Its distinctive form and vibrant red color not only create a visual contrast within the rugged terrain but also serve to draw attention and invite interaction, distinguishing it from typical architectural designs found in similar environments.

The pavilion’s primary function revolves around enhancing visitor experience through the creation of communal and contemplative spaces. It combines two essential functions: a coffee shop that serves as a social hub and an observation point for appreciating the natural surroundings. The interior layout encourages movement and interaction among guests, promoting a sense of community while facilitating individual reflection on the sweeping views afforded by the large glass panels that form its façade.

Material selection in this project emphasizes sustainability and environmental harmony. The use of sustainable timber for structural elements, alongside precast concrete flooring and aluminum cladding, underlines a commitment to durability and aesthetic coherence. Internally, bamboo features in various applications, reflecting a push toward renewable resources. The design intricacies, such as the geothermal heating system, further reinforce the project’s dedication to energy efficiency and ecological responsibility.

The architectural design of the Red Dot Pavilion introduces several unique approaches that set it apart from other projects. Notably, its bold color choice contrasts sharply with the neutral tones of the volcanic landscape, creating a landmark effect that enhances its visibility. Furthermore, the roof design mitigates issues related to snow accumulation, ensuring functionality while maintaining aesthetic integrity. The circulation plan within the pavilion facilitates a seamless visitor experience, allowing for easy transitions between the coffee shop and observation areas.

The integration of natural elements into the design process is another noteworthy aspect. The architecture resonates with Iceland's dramatic settings, allowing visitors to engage with nature directly while providing essential amenities that cater to their needs. The pavilion's architectural sections effectively convey the merging of built and natural environments, emphasizing how thoughtful design can coexist with raw landscapes.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Red Dot Pavilion, including its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, a deeper exploration of the project presentation is encouraged. This will provide additional insight into the design philosophies and operational functions that characterize this unique architectural endeavor.

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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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