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Panoramic Glazed Facade Framing Volcanic Stone Insights In A Crater-Inspired Retreat

Author:
Adam Kubica
Panoramic Glazed Facade Framing Volcanic Stone Insights In A Crater-Inspired Retreat

Project in-detail

The central space mimics a volcano crater, framed by a fully glazed facade and constructed from volcanic stone, offering visitors panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while serving as a Coffee Shop and visitor center.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central area mimics a volcano crater, enhancing the visitor experience.
02
Fully glazed facade offers unobstructed panoramic views of surrounding nature.
03
Constructed from volcanic stone, reinforcing regional geological connections.
04
Separate functional boxes facilitate diverse activities and smooth circulation.
05
Color scheme reflects local landscape, integrating the structure with its environment.

The Hverfjall Volcano Coffee Shop is located in Northern Iceland, serving tourists and local residents exploring the nearby natural landscape. Combining the roles of information center and relaxation space, it provides a welcoming atmosphere for visitors preparing for outdoor adventures or unwinding after their explorations. The design focuses on blending with the surrounding nature, ensuring that the architecture feels like a part of the landscape.

Architectural Concept
The building features a modern design that aims to create an inviting environment that reflects the region's unique geography. Upon entering through a main entrance situated between two existing wooden-clad boxes, visitors are directed to a central area that resembles a volcano crater. A skylight at the center fills this space with natural light, enriching the atmosphere and inviting people to gather.

Spatial Organization
Within the structure, separate boxes serve distinct functions, allowing for a smooth flow of movement. These boxes accommodate a Coffee Shop, a Souvenir Shop, and Office spaces, along with a Presentation Room for exhibitions and events. The circular base is integral to the design, enhancing both the utility and experience of the building, making it easy for visitors to navigate between different areas.

Material Palette
The color scheme of the Coffee Shop draws inspiration from the local landscape, utilizing shades of black and beige-gray that evoke the volcanic gravel and stones found in the area. Accents of white represent the snow and ice typical of Icelandic winters. The central coffee bar is made from natural volcanic stone, connecting the interior to the geological features surrounding the site. This choice of colors and materials helps the building blend in with its natural environment.

Visual Connectivity
The use of a fully glazed facade provides panoramic views of the beautiful landscape surrounding Hverfjall. This design choice encourages visitors to engage with the natural scenery and invites the outside into the space. Natural light floods the interior, enhancing the atmosphere within the Coffee Shop. The flow of circulation within the building guides visitors effortlessly from one functional area to another, offering various experiences and encouraging interaction with both the architecture and the landscape.

Large windows frame views of the landscape, establishing a dialogue between the building and its surroundings. This connection invites people to appreciate the natural beauty while enjoying the comfort of the interior. The thoughtful design creates a friendly and open environment that resonates with the essence of Northern Iceland.

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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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