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Floating Roof That Embraces Volcanic Terrain for Community Retreat

Author:
Theethaj Pholampaisathit
Floating Roof That Embraces Volcanic Terrain for Community Retreat
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The floating roof of the community retreat blends seamlessly with the volcanic terrain, creating a space where natural light enhances the experience of visitors seeking refreshment and rest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating roof design enhances natural light and views.
02
Integration with the volcanic terrain highlights local geology.
03
Community-oriented layout promotes interaction among visitors.
04
Large windows frame the surrounding landscape beautifully.
05
Interior offerings include a bakery and homebrew coffee station.

At the base of Hverfjall, Brew is designed as a welcoming retreat for travelers. Functioning as a multifunctional space, it provides essential services such as food and rest. The design concept seeks to connect visitors with the dramatic landscape, allowing them to enjoy the unique characteristics of their surroundings while finding comfort.

Conceptual Framework

Brew features a roof that appears to float above the volcanic ground. This design choice creates a sense of lightness and invites natural light into the building. The roof elevates the structure, enhancing the views and bringing the beauty of the landscape indoors. This connection to nature is a central theme in the design.

Spatial Organization

Inside Brew, various areas serve different purposes. There is an information center, a workstation, storage space, a temporary exhibition area, a café bar, coffee shop seating, and a service zone. Each section is purposefully arranged to foster interaction among visitors while ensuring smooth movement throughout the space. With offerings like a bakery and homebrew coffee station, the interior promotes a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Material Expression

The presentation does not specify materials, but it suggests that they will reflect the natural landscape. The design likely incorporates elements that echo the volcanic features nearby. This approach helps the building blend with its surroundings and creates a visual harmony that speaks to the place itself.

Design Detail

A key element of Brew is the use of large windows that frame views of Hverfjall. These openings bring the outside landscape into the experience of the interior. This connection between the building and nature enhances the overall design, making it a thoughtful addition to the area. The result is a space that not only meets practical needs but also encourages appreciation for the beauty of the environment.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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