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Circular Design Featuring Tinted Glass and Sustainable Slate in a Northern Icelandic Café

Authors:
Muhammad khairie Bin seripudin, Amirauf Mohd jainar, Mohd azman Bin harun, Muhammad samad iqbal Bin kamal
Circular Design Featuring Tinted Glass and Sustainable Slate in a Northern Icelandic Café

Project in-detail

Angular elevations of tinted glass and enduring slate create an engaging dialogue with the surrounding Icelandic landscape while serving as a community café for locals and travelers alike.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular layout maximizes natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Tilted tinted glass minimizes glare while enhancing thermal efficiency.
03
Combination of sustainable materials including slate and oak promotes durability.
04
Integration of an exhibition hall within a café fosters community engagement.
05
Positioning enhances accessibility for both local patrons and hikers.
The Sova Coffee Shop project is an architectural design that harmonizes functionality with a strong contextual presence. Located near Hverfjall Volcano in northern Iceland, the design reflects the concept of a coffee cup, representing a meeting point for locals and tourists to engage with both coffee culture and the stunning natural landscape. This building integrates a circular plan that enhances social interaction and optimizes visitor experience through dynamic spatial configurations.

The first floor encompasses an open lobby area designed to foster socialization among patrons, offering a variety of seating arrangements that provide clear sightlines to the exterior landscape. The second floor elevates the user experience with expansive views of the surrounding environment, featuring an exhibition hall that connects art with the café experience. The building’s design encourages accessibility and interaction while providing a welcoming atmosphere.

Unique Design Approaches

This project differentiates itself through its architectural form and materiality. The angular elevations allow for substantial natural light penetration, creating an ambiance that merges the interior with the exterior landscapes. The tilted tinted glass not only serves as a thermal regulator but also diminishes glare, enhancing comfort for users.

The choice of materials is deliberate, incorporating slate roof tiles for insulation and a contrast of textures between oak wood flooring and concrete walls to provide warmth and structural integrity. The use of stone tiles and marble adds both durability and aesthetic value, while slated flooring tiles ensure practicality without compromising on design quality.

The Sova Coffee Shop’s elevated location and integration within the Icelandic wilderness promote a cohesive relationship between architecture and nature. This thoughtful positioning allows users to appreciate the beauty of features like Hverfjall Volcano and Lake Mývatn, distinguishing it from other coffee shop designs that often prioritize urban contexts.

Architectural Details and Functionality

The design's functional elements are equally vital. The café accommodates the needs of various patrons, from casual coffee drinkers to art enthusiasts. Efficient spatial organization optimizes flow while maintaining an inviting environment. Each design element has been purposefully integrated to reinforce the project’s overarching theme of community and connection with nature.

To gain a deeper understanding of the nuances found in this project, including its architectural plans, sections, designs, and overall architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more detailed insights. This exploration will illuminate the intricate connections between design intent and the resulting spatial dynamics, offering a comprehensive perspective on the Sova Coffee Shop's architectural significance.
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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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