Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

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
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
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.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
new
Bellano Cotton 
Mill Museum

Design a museum in the former Cantoni Cotton Mill, Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 3 December 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 10 December 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 14 January 2027

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in