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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
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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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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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