The Hverfjall Coffee Shop/Visitor Center is located in the dramatic landscape of Hverfjall, Iceland. It serves as a space for visitors to relax, offering views of natural beauty while providing essential services. The design carefully reflects its setting, emphasizing integration with the surroundings and promoting a sense of calm.

Architectural Concept

The design is built around the idea of connecting the building with its landscape. By mirroring the forms of Hverfjall, the structure aims to create an atmosphere that encourages visitors to reflect and appreciate the environment. The layout focuses on enhancing the experience of being in such a remarkable natural setting, allowing visitors to take in the beauty of Iceland’s parks.



Spatial Features

One important aspect of the design is the roof structure, which creates a contrasting indoor space that is darker than the bright outdoors. This design choice helps visitors shift their focus to the natural scenery around them while ensuring comfort inside. At the highest point of the roof, an opening captures sunlight, allowing it to enter the central courtyard below.



Central Garden

The courtyard is designed as a natural garden that remains largely untouched. In the center, a steel spherical sculpture stands as a representation of the Earth’s mass, linking the building to Hverfjall’s geological background. This sculpture adds visual interest and invites visitors to think about the connections between nature, culture, and the site’s history.



Orientation and Views

The positioning of the building is done with care, enhancing how visitors experience the area. The coffee shop faces the Krafla lava fields, while the exhibition room looks out at Vindbelgjarfjall mountain. This orientation not only offers beautiful views but also helps root the facility in its geographic context, allowing visitors to appreciate the landscape’s defining features.



The design keeps the existing toilet facilities in their original location, which highlights its commitment to adapting to the site. The building’s shape is arranged in a ring at the edge of the roof, reducing its impact on the landscape and allowing the natural terrain to remain prominent. Overall, the design presents a clear connection to its setting, providing a coherent experience for visitors and fostering a deeper understanding of Hverfjall.