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Charred Wood Cladding and Dynamic Landscaping in a Nature-Inspired Community Space

Author:
Janez Flerin
Charred Wood Cladding and Dynamic Landscaping in a Nature-Inspired Community Space

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wood cladding and designed to embrace the surrounding landscape, the facility serves as a welcoming café and exhibition space that connects visitors to the essence of Icelandic nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and a unique aesthetic that reflects local material traditions.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while creating dynamic visual lines that echo the surrounding topography.
04
Large glass façades immerse visitors in stunning views of the Icelandic landscape, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
05
The layout encourages exploration with tiered levels and pathways that lead to various functional areas, promoting visitor interaction.
The project "Coffee Beam" represents a thoughtfully designed architectural endeavor that harmonizes with the natural landscape of Iceland. This structure serves a dual purpose: as a coffee shop and an exhibition space, it invites visitors to engage with both the product and the artistry inspired by the surrounding environment. The design emphasizes a minimalist approach, allowing the breathtaking Icelandic scenery to remain the focal point, while providing a functional and inviting space for visitors.

Architecturally, "Coffee Beam" utilizes a carefully selected palette of materials that echo the local context. Concrete forms the backbone of the structure, ensuring resilience and sustainability in an area known for its extreme weather conditions. Large glass panels dominate the facades, blurring the lines between inside and outside, and allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces. This transparency also facilitates uninterrupted views of the stunning landscape, creating a dynamic interaction between the structure and its surroundings. The use of wood accents within the interior brings warmth and comfort, complementing the starkness of the concrete and glass.

The layout of the building is intentional and caters to a diverse visitor experience. The café is designed to offer a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy quality coffee while soaking in the unparalleled views. The exhibition space is positioned to provide a quieter, more contemplative environment, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in art that reflects narratives of nature and cultural themes relevant to Iceland. Pathways and stairs guide guests through different elevations of the building, encouraging exploration and engagement with the environment.

A unique aspect of "Coffee Beam" is its approach to form. The design features soft, flowing lines that echo the natural contours of the Icelandic terrain. This nuanced approach to architecture avoids imposing structures that disrupt the landscape, instead prioritizing a symbiotic relationship between building and environment. The natural light permeating through the expansive glass spaces emphasizes this connection, enhancing both the aesthetic and experiential qualities of the project.

Another significant consideration in the design process is sustainability. By incorporating locally sourced materials and minimizing the visual impact on the landscape, "Coffee Beam" aligns with contemporary architectural ideals that prioritize environmental responsibility. The building’s design encourages responsible use of resources while still ensuring that functionality and comfort are maintained.

In addition to its architectural merit, "Coffee Beam" represents a conceptual journey—one that invites visitors to engage with both the physical and cultural aspects of Iceland. It stands as a testament to the ability of architecture to facilitate human connection to nature and to each other. This project offers valuable insights into innovative design ideas that prioritize context and interaction.

For those interested in exploring the full range of architectural elements, including plans and sections, a deeper dive into "Coffee Beam" reveals the intricacies of its design. By examining the architectural ideas that underpin this project, readers can gain a clearer understanding of how architecture can effectively balance functionality with the inherent beauty of its surroundings. I encourage you to further investigate the project presentation to appreciate the careful thoughtfulness that defines "Coffee Beam."
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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