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Twisted Roof Structure with Timber Surfaces Overlooking Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Lee Emma, Yulia Wu
Twisted Roof Structure with Timber Surfaces Overlooking Volcanic Landscape
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A twisted roof structure, inspired by volcanic forms and characterized by wooden surfaces, enhances the visitor experience at a coffee shop located at the base of Hverfjall volcano.
5 key facts about this project
01
A twisted roof mimics the form of flowing lava from the volcano.
02
Fissures between structures visually reduce mass and enhance engagement.
03
Wooden surfaces are chosen to align with the natural landscape.
04
The roof serves as a walkable platform for panoramic views.
05
The design includes a dedicated exhibition space for volcanic education.

The Iceland Volcano Coffee Shop is located at the base of Hverfjall volcano in North Iceland. It provides a space for visitors to enjoy local coffee while appreciating the natural beauty surrounding them. The design focuses on creating a connection between the built environment and the landscape, enhancing the overall experience for guests.

Architecture Concept

The coffee shop consists of two main structures: a new building and the original existing structure. These are separated by fissures, which give the design a lighter appearance and help to reduce its visual mass. This separation creates a rhythmic quality that engages visitors, inviting them to explore and discover the relationship between the architecture and the volcanic landscape.

Roof Design

The roof is an important feature of the coffee shop. It has a twisted shape, which serves both an aesthetic and symbolic role. This twisting evokes the imagery of flowing lava, reinforcing the connection to Hverfjall volcano. The roof also features walkable areas, allowing visitors to experience nature up close and offering views of the dramatic landscape.

Interior Layout

Inside, the coffee shop is divided into two areas. One space accommodates the coffee-serving area and a volcano exhibition, while the other functions as a service area, containing a tourist center, storage, and offices. This separation ensures that visitors have both a comfortable place to relax and efficient access to necessary services. The layout promotes an engaging experience by blending leisure with practicality.

Material Consideration

Timber and clean surfaces are used throughout the design to reflect the natural environment and create a warm atmosphere. These choices help establish a connection to the surrounding landscape, promoting a cohesive and inviting design. The materials chosen enhance the sensory experience within the coffee shop, making it an enjoyable place for visitors to gather.

The building's forms and interconnected spaces result in a roof that rises above the horizon, providing a unique perspective of Hverfjall volcano. Visitors are invited to take in the beauty of the landscape as they navigate this thoughtfully designed space.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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