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Curved Bio-Concrete Shelter Crafted with Translucent Polyester and Natural Timber For Community Gathering

Author:
Ivan Genov
Curved Bio-Concrete Shelter Crafted with Translucent Polyester and Natural Timber For Community Gathering

Project in-detail

Curved forms of bio-concrete seamlessly integrate with a translucent polyester membrane and natural timber, creating a unique space for community interaction near the Hverfjall volcano.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved bio-concrete walls mimic the surrounding volcanic landscape, enhancing site integration.
02
Translucent polyester membrane roof allows natural light to filter into the cafe while maintaining a lightweight structure.
03
Natural timber framing supports sustainable construction practices, utilizing locally sourced materials.
04
Accessible entrance features a gentle ramp, promoting inclusivity for all visitors.
05
Design elements reflect traditional Icelandic architecture while embracing modern construction techniques.

The Iceland Volcano Coffee Shop is an architectural project designed to function as a cafe and community gathering space located near the Hverfjall volcano in Iceland. Its design emphasizes a strong connection to the surrounding landscape while offering visitors a unique space that encourages engagement with the geological features of the area. The building integrates sustainable practices and local materials, aligning with contemporary environmental considerations.

The primary structural component consists of timber frames, which promote a lightweight yet sturdy framework. The roof is constructed from a polyester fabric membrane, contributing to a modern aesthetic while allowing natural light to permeate the interior. The building features mineral insulation to enhance energy efficiency and maintain comfort for users. Glass-fiber fabric is incorporated to create a visually transparent facade that blurs the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces. Additionally, the use of Deton, a bio-concrete, significantly reduces carbon emissions related to construction.

This project emphasizes an open floor plan, designed to facilitate movement and interaction among patrons. The interior spaces include areas for coffee serving, dining, and exhibitions, all oriented to maximize views of the surrounding landscape. By creating a continuous and gentle ramp as part of the entrance, the design reinforces accessibility and encourages a smooth transition from the exterior environment into the building.

The coffee shop's unique architectural approach is highlighted by its organic curvature, which parallels the slopes of the Hverfjall volcano. This design choice allows the structure to integrate harmoniously into the topography, making it a distinctive feature of the landscape rather than a foreign insertion. The use of traditional Icelandic design elements, such as a pitched roof, further enhances its contextual relevance.

In terms of materials, the building relies on locally sourced timber, which not only supports regional economies but also minimizes transportation impacts. The lightweight nature of the materials used, combined with the design's responsiveness to wind and weather, further illustrates a forward-thinking approach to architecture in a harsh climate.

The Iceland Volcano Coffee Shop is a project that embodies sustainable architectural practices, thoughtful integration with the landscape, and functional design. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, a detailed presentation is available for further insights.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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