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Moss-Covered Roof and Natural Stone Blend for a Visitor Center at Hverfjall

Author:
Maria Akinina
Moss-Covered Roof and Natural Stone Blend for a Visitor Center at Hverfjall
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A moss-covered roof and local stone façade create a seamless integration with the volcanic landscape, providing a functional space for visitors to learn about and enjoy the unique natural surroundings of Hverfjall.
5 key facts about this project
01
Moss-covered roof designed to blend with the volcanic landscape.
02
Round layout promotes fluid movement for visitors.
03
Exhibition hall provides educational displays on Hverfjall.
04
Locally sourced materials enhance environmental sensitivity.
05
Dedicated entry points streamline operational efficiency.

A coffee shop has been created at the base of Volcano Hverfjall, positioned to fit into the rugged landscape. Designed for both hikers and tourists, the building acts as a place to rest and learn. The main aim is to connect visitors with their surroundings in a respectful way, allowing the natural beauty of the volcano to remain the focus.

Design Concept

The design draws heavily from the features of the volcanic landscape. By incorporating a round shape, the building reflects the natural curves found in its environment rather than competing with them. The interior is organized around a central exhibition hall, serving as both a learning space and a gathering spot. Visitors enter this area directly upon arrival, creating a strong relationship between the building and the landscape.

Spatial Organization

Entering through the southern entrance, guests are welcomed into the exhibition hall filled with information about Hverfjall. The café hall is conveniently placed nearby to encourage interaction among visitors while they explore the exhibitions. Functional areas such as storage rooms and an office are thoughtfully integrated into the overall layout, ensuring that operational needs are met without disrupting the visitor experience.

Materiality

The materials chosen for construction include stone, rocks, turf, moss, and wood. Sourced locally, these materials aim to blend with the natural environment while being durable. The design features a roof covered in moss, which will grow unevenly, reinforcing the connection between the building and the surrounding area. Wood is used for the ceiling, bringing warmth to the interior and enhancing its inviting character.

Design Details

The roof design incorporates skylights to bring in natural light, creating a bright atmosphere while connecting the indoor and outdoor spaces. This thoughtful approach to light enhances the overall experience for visitors. Additionally, dedicated entry points for deliveries and waste disposal are included to ensure that daily operations run smoothly. Overall, the design highlights the relationship between the building and the landscape, evidenced in its thoughtful layout and material choices.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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