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Curvilinear Café Utilizing Charred Timber and Panoramic Views of Hverfjall Crater

Authors:
Juyeon Ha, Yerin Noh, TAEIN BANG
Curvilinear Café Utilizing Charred Timber and Panoramic Views of Hverfjall Crater

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred timber and designed to mimic the organic forms of the surrounding volcanic landscape, the café offers visitors a serene space to engage with the natural beauty of Hverfjall Crater.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability against the harsh climate.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame to maximize panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Features large glass walls to create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
05
Includes meditation spaces, promoting visitor reflection amidst the natural environment.
The architectural project located at Hverfjall Crater, Iceland, serves as a café designed to enhance the visitor experience amidst a dynamic landscape. The structure reflects a strong commitment to environmental integration and sustainability, providing a functional space for guests to enjoy the area's volcanic beauty. By prioritizing panoramic views and natural light, the building creates an inviting atmosphere suitable for both socialization and personal reflection.

Unique Contextual Integration

The design approach emphasizes a curvilinear form, mirroring the organic shapes of the volcanic terrain. This architectural decision minimizes visual disruption while optimizing the building’s connection to its surroundings. Large glass panels facilitate transparency and continuity between the interior and exterior environments. This design strategy promotes a biophilic response, allowing visitors to remain engaged with the dynamic landscape. The incorporation of timber accents within the interior softens the otherwise stark elements of concrete and steel, contributing to an overall sense of comfort.

Sustainable Functional Design

In terms of functionality, the project consists of two main levels. The first floor hosts public areas including an office, exhibition space, and restrooms, designed for efficient navigation and accessibility. The second floor accommodates the café, meditation spaces, and additional rest areas. This thoughtful spatial organization ensures a variety of user experiences, from communal interaction to contemplative solitude. The choice of materials, including reinforced concrete for structural support and local timber for warm accents, reflects a focus on durability and locality, reinforcing sustainable construction practices.

The architectural plans illustrate a commitment to energy efficiency, with passive heating and natural light strategies enhancing environmental performance. This attention to sustainability aligns with contemporary architectural trends, demonstrating a growing recognition of the role that design plays in fostering environmental stewardship.

For further insights, explore the project presentation which details architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas that contribute to its overall success.
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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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