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Sliced Stone Disc Elevated on Lava Rocks with Laminated Wood Structure for Tranquil Coffee Retreat

Author:
Liang Hou
Sliced Stone Disc Elevated on Lava Rocks with Laminated Wood Structure for Tranquil Coffee Retreat

Project in-detail

A sliced stone disc elevated by lava rocks serves as a tranquil coffee shop, blending seamlessly with the volcanic landscape while utilizing a laminated wood structure for enhanced stability and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sliced stone disc form elevates above the ground using natural lava rocks.
02
Integrated thermal insulation enhances energy efficiency in a volcanic environment.
03
Laminated wood structure provides both stability and a minimalist aesthetic.
04
Strategically placed views connect interior spaces with the surrounding landscape.
05
Public areas encourage social interaction while promoting tranquility.

The design engages with its volcanic setting, presenting a coffee shop that embodies tranquility through minimalism and a close connection to nature. The building takes shape as a sliced stone disc, raised above the ground on lava rocks. This form creates a clear relationship between the architecture and the earth. Positioned thoughtfully within the landscape, the coffee shop enhances immersion in the surrounding environment.

SITE AND VIEWS

The chosen site allows for an engaging connection to the landscape. Attention to viewpoints emphasizes the relationship between the interior and the exterior. Visitors can observe from the parking area towards the entrance as well as from the hillside of the volcano. These perspectives are essential, fostering a sense of place and inviting visitors to appreciate the dramatic natural scenery.

FUNCTIONAL ORGANIZATION

The layout is designed for efficiency, promoting easy movement between various areas. The main spaces include an office, storage, entrance, beverage preparation area, lounge, bar, toilets, and an exhibition area. Each space is intended to enhance the user experience and offers direct access to the outside. This approach encourages social interaction and a deeper appreciation of the surrounding nature.

STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY

The structure shows careful planning and attention to detail. The heights are defined specifically at 2.65 m, 1.45 m, and 0.00 m, ensuring a proportional relationship that meets ergonomic needs. The use of waterproof insulation and thermal insulation within the walls guarantees protection from environmental elements, while the combination of laminated wooden blocks and a steel frame provides necessary stability and support.

MATERIAL SELECTION

The roof features laminated wooden panels topped with concrete finish, which offers strength while keeping a clean appearance. This material choice supports sustainable practices and reduces ecological impact. Thoughtful design details encourage exploration of the space. The overall form invites a tranquil atmosphere, promoting moments of reflection and a connection with the landscape.

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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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