Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Reflective Glass and Circular Form Embrace Volcanic Landscapes in a Scenic Coffee Stop

Authors:
Atahan Topçu, Emre Erdoğan
Reflective Glass and Circular Form Embrace Volcanic Landscapes in a Scenic Coffee Stop

Project in-detail

A circular structure clad in reflective glass harmonizes with the volcanic landscape of Hverfjall, offering visitors a unique setting to enjoy coffee while engaging with panoramic views of the surrounding natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
A circular design reflects the symmetry of Hverfjall crater.
02
The use of reflective glass creates visual connections with the surrounding landscape.
03
A versatile platform deck accommodates various visitor activities.
04
Panoramic views of Lake Mývatn enhance the visitor experience.
05
Natural materials promote a warm and inviting atmosphere within the space.

The Panoramic Coffee Shop is located at Hverfjall Volcano, a place known for its remarkable geological features and stunning landscapes. It serves both as a resting spot for visitors and an observation area for enjoying views of Lake Mývatn and the surrounding volcanic scenery. The design concept utilizes a circular shape that mirrors the symmetry of the nearby crater. This approach encourages movement and interaction, allowing guests to fully connect with the natural environment.

Architectural Form

The circular structure appears to float, inviting visitors to explore its surroundings. This design enhances the experience by providing wide views that change as guests move around. Each viewpoint offers a new perspective, deepening the connection to the landscape.

Interior and Functionality

A key feature is the platform deck, which creates a flexible area for different activities. Visitors can choose to sit, stand, or lie down while enjoying refreshments, promoting social interaction and accommodating diverse needs. The space adapts to the desires of its users, making it inviting for all.

Materials and Aesthetic

Reflective glass is a major material in the façade, designed to connect the building with its surroundings. This choice helps it blend in and creates interesting reflections of the rugged landscape. Wood is also used in structural elements, adding warmth and a sense of comfort that balances the natural roughness outside.

Visitor Experience

The layout encourages exploration, allowing for easy movement between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large openings draw the landscape into the coffee shop, enhancing the relationship between built and natural environments. This focus on connection fosters a rich experience that engages visitors' senses while surrounded by nature.

With its sculptural form, the coffee shop captures the essence of Hverfjall Volcano and offers a peaceful place for visitors to relax while taking in the dramatic scenery.

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

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy