Architecture project // Compacted Clay and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace in a Visitor Center Hidden Amidst Iceland's Landscape

Compacted Clay and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace in a Visitor Center Hidden Amidst Iceland's Landscape

Authors:

Zofia Konarowska, Monika Jabłońska, Igor Łysiuk, Iryna Bilous

Constructed with compacted clay and cross-laminated timber, the visitor center offers a welcoming retreat for hikers at Hverfjall volcano while seamlessly integrating into the Icelandic landscape.

5 key facts about this project

Built to minimize earthworks, the Coffee Shop is elevated to withstand heavy snow.

The building utilizes locally sourced rocks as both foundation and decorative elements.

A green roof enhances local biodiversity and improves the building's thermal performance.

Daylighting design significantly reduces reliance on artificial lighting throughout the interior.

Flexible spaces support educational workshops alongside traditional café functions.

General keywords

iceland coffee shop hverfjall visitor center sustainability natural landscape modular education outdoor activities community

Project specific keywords

cross-laminated timber compacted clay green roof modular structure thermal insulation

The Iceland Volcano Coffee Shop acts as a central point for visitors exploring the Hverfjall volcano. Designed to blend with the landscape while serving practical needs, the structure emphasizes the importance of user experience. The overall design highlights a clear relationship between the building and its natural surroundings, creating a space that invites engagement and reflection.

Form and Function

The southern façade features extensive glazing at the entrance, allowing people to see inside while also creating curiosity about what they will find. This aspect of transparency helps connect visitors with nature as they approach the Coffee Shop. Inside, the layout centers on providing a comforting experience for those returning from hikes. Expansive views of the volcano are framed within the space, encouraging a sense of peace and contemplation.

Spatial Organization

The interior includes both a café and an exhibition area, which fosters both social interaction and learning opportunities. A softly designed seating area, complete with a suspended fireplace, welcomes visitors to relax and share their experiences. Meanwhile, the niche bar provides a practical space for refreshments. This careful organization promotes movement and interaction among guests, enriching their time spent within the building.

Sustainability Strategies

Sustainability is woven into the design through effective use of passive house strategies. Natural light reduces the need for artificial illumination, enhancing energy efficiency. Strategically placed openings allow for fresh air circulation, contributing to a healthy indoor environment. Additionally, the roof overhang is crafted to control temperature during the warmer months, while a green roof helps with insulation and supports local plant life.

Materials and Performance

The building uses cross-laminated timber for its structural framework. This choice allows for quick construction and reduces the overall environmental impact. Internally, compacted clay partitions improve thermal efficiency and create a pleasant atmosphere.

As visitors leave the Coffee Shop, they experience an environment that balances practicality with design. The setting, paired with the building's thoughtful construction, encourages guests to continue exploring the beauty of the Icelandic landscape.