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Twisted Roof Form Enhanced by Volcanic Rock and Glass in a Community Coffee Shop

Author:
Filip Eugen Lelas
Twisted Roof Form Enhanced by Volcanic Rock and Glass in a Community Coffee Shop
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With a twisted roof form that enhances wind resistance and integrates volcanic rock elements, the design creates a unique communal space for coffee enjoyment within Iceland's rugged landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Twisted roof design improves wind resistance and snow management.
02
Integrates volcanic rock elements to connect with the surrounding landscape.
03
Large glass facades maximize natural light and landscape views.
04
Communal nooks provide intimate spaces within the open layout.
05
Constructed with sustainable materials that enhance thermal efficiency.

The Iceland Volcano Coffee Shop represents a synthesis of architectural design and environmental responsiveness. Located in the rugged landscape of Iceland, the project serves as a coffee shop and cultural hub, providing a retreat for visitors amid the harsh natural environment. The structure employs a thoughtful approach to space and materiality, creating an inviting atmosphere while also addressing the climatic conditions typical of the region.

The primary function of the coffee shop is to offer a welcoming space for patrons to gather, relax, and experience the surrounding landscape. The design features an open area for communal seating, smaller nooks for privacy, and an exhibition room that allows for natural light to engage with artwork and displays. The building's configuration encourages social interaction while maintaining individual spaces that mirror natural shelters, embodying the concept of a nest.

The use of materials is a defining aspect of the architectural approach. Steel forms the structural framework, providing durability. Concrete walls contribute to thermal mass, essential for energy efficiency in a cold climate. Expansive glass surfaces create a seamless connection between the interior and the Icelandic landscape, enhancing the user experience while optimizing natural light. Wood is incorporated into the interior finishes, adding warmth to the design.

The design utilizes unique approaches to address both aesthetic and functional requirements of the site. The twisted roof design not only adds to the dynamic visual profile but also enhances the building's performance in withstanding wind and snow. The architectural layout promotes fluid movement between different areas, echoing the organic flow of the natural landscape. This interaction between built and natural environments is crucial in ensuring a balanced user experience.

Sustainability is seamlessly integrated into the project. The selection of materials and the design of the building collectively reduce energy consumption through passive heating and cooling strategies. This ecological consideration solidifies the architecture’s identity as a project that is not only a shelter but also a participant in its environmental context.

For those interested in a more comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, detailed architectural plans, sections, and design visuals are available for review. Exploring these elements further will provide deeper insights into the design concepts and structural innovations implemented within the Iceland Volcano Coffee Shop.

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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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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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