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Geological Integration Using Timber Composites and Glass Walls at a Hverfjall Rest Stop

Authors:
Dian Luo, Xiang Liu, Zhenhua Gao, Bo Li
Geological Integration Using Timber Composites and Glass Walls at a Hverfjall Rest Stop

Project in-detail

Utilizing timber composites and a glass curtain wall, the design effectively integrates the building with the geological features of Hverfjall, offering a functional rest stop for hikers in the Myvatn area.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building features a unique gravel roof that blends with the surrounding landscape.
02
A glass curtain wall offers panoramic views of the Myvatn area.
03
The design incorporates natural rocks and soils for site-specific integration.
04
The interior showcases wooden elements that reflect local building traditions.
05
Timber composites are used to enhance structural durability and warmth.

At the foot of Hverfjall volcano in the Myvatn area of Iceland, the Iceland Cafe stands out as a thoughtfully designed space that connects with its natural environment. It serves as a refuge for hikers and offers a place to rest amid the striking landscape. The design concept focuses on the idea that form should engage with the surrounding nature, enhancing the experience for visitors.

Design Integration

The cafe is located at the intersection of two hiking paths, making it easily accessible for those exploring the area. The design balances protection and openness well. The side facing the volcano is intentionally solid, helping to reduce the overwhelming presence of Hverfjall. This choice provides visitors with a secure feeling. On the other hand, the transparent glass wall allows views of the picturesque Myvatn landscape, creating a lively connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Spatial Dynamics

Inside, the cafe features a warm atmosphere that invites visitors to relax. Wooden elements are used throughout the interior, giving the space a cozy feel. This choice not only makes the environment comfortable but also reflects traditional local building styles, acknowledging the area's cultural heritage. The layout encourages people to gather, enhancing the social experience of stopping by during a hike.

Geological Resonance

The structure’s form captures the natural features of the landscape. Surfaces rise and connect, creating a visual narrative of the geological forces that shaped the region. This relationship reinforces the idea that the cafe is part of the area's story, not just a place to eat and rest. Visitors can appreciate how the building interacts with the surrounding geology, strengthening their connection to the land.

Technical Aspects

Materials used in the construction include natural rocks and soils, reinforced concrete, I-steel beams, timber composites, engineered wood ceilings, I-steel columns, and structurally glazed systems. These materials were carefully selected for their structural qualities as well as their visual harmony with the environment. The result is a building that integrates effectively with its setting.

The gravel roof blends with the landscape, inviting visitors to explore the geological features of the Myvatn area and encouraging a deeper understanding of the relationship between the built environment and nature.

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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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