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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Blending with Natural Landscapes in a Community Café Setting

Authors:
Carmelo Bagalà, Guido Mozzanica
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Blending with Natural Landscapes in a Community Café Setting

Project in-detail

Designed with a green roof and constructed from cross-laminated timber panels, the facility seamlessly integrates into its volcanic surroundings while serving as a multifunctional community café.
5 key facts about this project
01
The green roof enhances thermal performance while promoting local biodiversity.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity and a sustainable aesthetic.
03
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for weather resistance and visual texture.
04
The bent A-frame design minimizes visual impact on the surrounding landscape.
05
Large glazing elements maximize natural light and connect interior spaces to nature.
The architectural project located near Myvatn Lake in Iceland is a well-considered design that embodies a contemporary interpretation of traditional Icelandic architecture. The project emphasizes sustainability, integrating seamlessly into the rugged natural landscape while providing a functional space for visitors. The design utilizes local materials, reflecting an ecological awareness and respecting the regional environment.

This facility is primarily intended as a recreational structure, housing a café, community spaces, and various amenities. The layout is thoughtfully organized to encourage social interaction and engagement with the surrounding landscape. The project aims to serve both locals and tourists, promoting community use and appreciation of its beautiful surroundings.

The overall architectural layout includes distinct functional areas:
- The café provides a communal gathering space, equipped to serve food and beverages to visitors.
- Outdoor terraces enhance user experience, allowing for dining and leisure while enjoying the views.
- Service areas are incorporated into the plan, discreetly positioned to maintain aesthetic integrity.

The building's design employs innovative approaches that distinguish it from typical projects in similar contexts.

Design Integration with the Landscape
The architecture incorporates a green roof, designed to mimic the surrounding topography and vegetation. This feature not only improves aesthetic cohesion with the landscape but also provides natural insulation and enhances biodiversity. The structure's low profile minimizes its visibility, fostering a sense of connection with the environment. Large glass panels are strategically placed to facilitate natural light while offering expansive views of the landscape, reinforcing the indoor-outdoor relationship.

Sustainable Materiality and Energy Efficiency
The material palette is carefully selected to reflect local resources and construction methods. Use of local stone provides durability and context, while timber elements lend warmth and a tactile quality to the design. The project adopts passive design principles through orientation and ventilation, promoting energy efficiency and user comfort. This focus on sustainability resonates with the regional heritage, where building methods have long relied on locally available materials and environmental considerations.

The architectural plans, sections, and designs illustrate the thoughtful integration of these elements within the landscape. For further insights into the architectural ideas and detailed spatial arrangements of this project, we encourage an exploration of the project presentation materials available. Analyzing the architectural plans and sections can provide a comprehensive understanding of how this project stands out in contemporary architectural practice.
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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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