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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form Community Space in Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Facundo Garcia berro, Paula Lesch
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form Community Space in Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the coffee shop integrates seamlessly into Iceland's volcanic landscape, offering a community gathering space that respects both local heritage and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced volcanic stone, the building reflects the surrounding landscape.
02
The use of cross-laminated timber panels enhances structural performance while promoting sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light penetration and panoramic views.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and blend with the rugged environment.
05
The interior layout centers around a communal hearth, encouraging social interaction among visitors.
The Iceland Volcano Longhouse Coffee Shop is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located in Iceland's distinct volcanic landscape. This building serves as a coffee shop, providing a space for visitors to gather, relax, and enjoy their surroundings. The design emphasizes a seamless integration with the natural environment while referencing the historical longhouse architecture of the Viking era. The project embodies a commitment to sustainability and local materials, enhancing both its functionality and connection to the landscape.

The form of the building mimics the volcanic topography, featuring a pitched roof that slopes down gracefully. This design choice enables the structure to blend visually with its surroundings, minimizing disruption to the landscape. Large glass panels are strategically placed to allow natural light and provide unobstructed views of the volcanic features, reinforcing the building's connection to nature.

Unique to this project is its emphasis on community interaction. The interior space is designed around a central gathering area, reminiscent of a communal hearth, which promotes social engagement among visitors. The layout encourages movement and interaction, fostering a welcoming atmosphere in contrast to more conventional coffee shop designs.

Materials play a crucial role in this project. The use of recycled timber and local volcanic stone reflects a dedication to sustainability and an understanding of regional resources. These materials not only provide structural integrity but also contribute to the aesthetic, grounding the building within its natural environment. Additionally, the green roof complements the natural setting by providing insulation and promoting local biodiversity.

Sustainability strategies are embedded within the overall design. The building's systems support energy efficiency, with rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and ground source heating integrated into the architecture. These features ensure the space operates sustainably, minimizing its ecological footprint while serving the needs of its users.

In summary, the Iceland Volcano Longhouse Coffee Shop represents a careful balance between architecture and nature. Its design embodies historical references while fostering a modern approach to community spaces. For those interested in further exploring the project, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs are available for review to provide comprehensive insights into this exceptional architectural endeavor.
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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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