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Lava Brick Coffee Shop With Vertical Garden at Volcanic Summit

Authors:
Betsalel Fogel, Andrea Capra, Federica Masia
Lava Brick Coffee Shop With Vertical Garden at Volcanic Summit

Project in-detail

Constructed from local lava bricks and enveloped in carbonated wood, the coffee shop incorporates a vertical garden within its multifunctional core, seamlessly blending into the volcanic landscape while offering a unique space for community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with local lava bricks for enhanced durability against weather.
02
Features a vertical garden integrated into the central core for improved air quality.
03
Incorporates a double helix slope to promote accessibility and fluid circulation.
04
Utilizes carbonated wood panels for thermal insulation and visual contrast.
05
Designed to reflect the circular shape of the volcano, blending with the landscape.

The project focuses on reimagining the shape of a volcano, which is easily recognizable by its ring-like structure. Located in an area where the landscape heavily influences the environment, the design aims to reconstruct the lost summit of the volcano, turning it into a coffee shop that connects with nature. The circular layout encourages movement and interaction, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the surrounding geological features.

Circulation and Accessibility

One of the notable features is the double helix slope integrated into the design. This configuration enhances circulation and provides a smooth flow between different areas, making it easy for visitors to navigate. The ramps have a low incline, which ensures that everyone, including those with mobility challenges, can access the space comfortably. This focus on accessibility is a key aspect of the overall design strategy, fostering a welcoming environment for all users.

Structural and Material Composition

The upper floors are largely constructed from glass, which allows natural light to flood the interiors while providing views of the landscape. This transparency is contrasted by carbonated wooden panels that shelter these glass sections, creating an engaging visual effect. These wooden panels contribute to insulation, keeping the interior comfortable and reducing energy use. The blend of materials also ties back to the volcanic theme, echoing the shapes and textures found in nature.

Functional Core and Garden Integration

Central to the structure is a multifunctional core, which plays a vital role in supporting the design. It houses essential facilities like sanitation and storage, linking the different levels of the building. This core features a vertical garden, introducing a natural element that enhances the interior environment. The presence of greenery not only improves air quality but also connects the built space with the surrounding ecosystem, emphasizing a balance between architecture and nature.

Spatial Organization and Visitor Experience

The layout organizes distinct areas for exhibitions, work, and socializing, promoting a variety of experiences for visitors. The entrance includes an information point that guides guests through the coffee bar and exhibition spaces, leading up to a rooftop terrace. This thoughtful design allows for spacious engagement while clearly delineating different activities. The wide central corridor encourages gatherings and interactions, making it a communal space for all who visit.

Local lava bricks are used in construction, linking the design to its geographic context. Known for their durability against harsh weather, these bricks are practical and enhance the building's resilience. Their lightweight quality makes them easier to work with during construction, integrating them into the vision of the project. With these choices, the design honors the volcanic landscape while providing a functional and inviting public space.

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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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