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Glazed Larch Modules Embracing Natural Landscapes in a Community Hub

Author:
Sina Drechsler
Glazed Larch Modules Embracing Natural Landscapes in a Community Hub

Project in-detail

Constructed with glazed larch modules that harmonize with the surrounding landscape, the facility serves as a community hub for enhancing visitor engagement while offering a tranquil space for coffee and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique modular design features equal-sized elongated rectangles arranged orthogonally.
02
Glazed walkways create visual connections between indoor and outdoor spaces.
03
Larch formwork used in the facade contrasts with the grey tones of the landscape.
04
Inner courtyard serves as a flexible space for social gatherings and exhibitions.
05
Bridges mark threshold areas, symbolizing the flow of volcanic terrain.

The Island Volcano Coffee Shop is a modular structure located next to a museum, designed to provide a welcoming space for visitors to enjoy coffee and social interaction. The layout consists of elongated rectangular forms arranged in a careful order on a flat site, creating both functional areas and inviting visuals. The concept aims to enhance community engagement while respecting the natural environment surrounding the facility.

Architectural Composition

The layout features a series of modules, each serving a unique purpose. The cubes are connected primarily along their long, narrow sides. This connection allows for easy movement and interaction among users, generating an open atmosphere throughout the various areas of the coffee shop. Glazed walkways serve to blend the indoor space with the outdoors, encouraging a sense of continuity with the landscape.

Programmatic Functionality

A key element of the design is the reception and information area, which includes a café counter and wide windows that open to a spacious inner courtyard. This courtyard becomes a social hub where visitors can gather comfortably. A separate module for café seating is positioned to overlook the untouched landscape to the northwest, providing a quiet spot for customers away from the main activity of the shop.

Spatial Relationships

Off to the left of the information area, offices and a warehouse are designed to maintain privacy, yet they still offer access to outdoor spaces. The two exhibition rooms of the adjoining museum are situated on the right side, carefully framing the inner courtyard and enhancing the experience for visitors. The arrangement of these spaces supports both functionality and the opportunity for exploration.

Materiality and Contextual Integration

The design incorporates white glazed larch formwork, which creates a distinct visual identity against the natural surroundings. This choice of material highlights the contrast between the building and the landscape, allowing the structure to reflect the changing colors and textures of its environment. Variations in height inspired by volcanic flows enhance the connection to the geographical setting and enrich the architectural narrative.

A notable detail is the height changes created by the bridges connecting the modules, marking a clear transition from the built environment to nature. These thresholds not only facilitate movement but also deepen the relationship between architecture and its natural surroundings.

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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
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