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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
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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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