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Rainwater Harvesting Structure with Curved Walls Overlooking a Volcano

Authors:
Albert Galstyan, Armineh Sukiassian, Ofelya Vardanyan, Varant yessaye Hadjian
Rainwater Harvesting Structure with Curved Walls Overlooking a Volcano

Project in-detail

Incorporating rainwater harvesting and curved walls that evoke the natural forms of the Aurora lights, the coffee shop offers visitors stunning views of both a volcano and a lake while creating a harmonious connection with the landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design includes a viewing platform that maximizes sightlines to both the volcano and lake.
02
Curved walls are inspired by the natural shapes of the Aurora lights.
03
A rainwater harvesting system channels water for sustainable use.
04
Transparent interior spaces enhance the connection with the surrounding landscape.
05
Small domes allow for flexible outdoor seating arrangements.

The architectural design of a coffee shop aims to create an inviting place for visitors while emphasizing the beauty of the surrounding environment. Positioned between a volcano and a lake, the coffee shop functions as an exhibition hall that celebrates nature. The design concept incorporates elements of the landscape into the structure itself, offering a unique connection to the scenic views available from various points within the space.

Conceptual Framework
The design focuses on lifting a part of the landscape, which is then covered in glass. This approach allows visitors to enjoy clear views of the volcano from inside the coffee shop. Areas within the building are designed to be transparent, reinforcing the link between indoor and outdoor spaces. Curved walls inspired by the shapes of the Aurora lights create intimate areas while also adding to the visual appeal of the interior.

Functionality and Circulation
The layout includes two entrances to streamline movement throughout the coffee shop. The primary entrance serves visitors directly, while the secondary entrance supports staff operations. This division helps set apart public areas from private ones, enhancing the efficiency of everyday operations. By organizing these spaces carefully, the design maximizes the usable area and reduces unnecessary transitions as people move through the building.

Sustainability Strategies
An important aspect of the design is its focus on sustainability. The plan includes a system for collecting rainwater, with specific areas of the shelter designed to capture and direct this water into underground storage. It is estimated that this system can gather about 8,800 liters of rainwater annually, making it a valuable resource for the coffee shop. This initiative reinforces a commitment to environmental responsibility while supporting the functionality of the space.

Material Considerations
The design also emphasizes the reuse of materials, suggesting the demolition of existing structures to repurpose materials for the new floor finishes. Among the materials mentioned, steel and reused plastic are highlighted, particularly in the construction of small domes that facilitate flexible outdoor seating. This focus on adaptable spaces not only contributes to sustainability but also enhances how visitors interact with the environment.

In summary, the coffee shop integrates with its landscape, allowing visitors to appreciate both the beauty of nature and the architecture itself. The roof structure includes a viewing platform that encourages people to take in the sights of the lake and the volcano, completing the design's goal of fostering a connection to the surrounding environment.

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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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