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Undulating Roofline Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber and Basalt in a Volcanic Landscape Coffee Shop

Authors:
Everton Souza, Olga Liz, Marcos Vinicius, Ana paula Sapia
Undulating Roofline Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber and Basalt in a Volcanic Landscape Coffee Shop

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber and basalt, the coffee shop's undulating roofline reflects the volcanic morphology of Hverfjall while providing a serene space for visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a roofline that mimics the natural contours of the Hverfjall landscape.
02
Constructed using locally sourced cross-laminated timber to enhance sustainability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles to increase durability and weather resistance.
04
Incorporates geothermal heating strategies to reduce energy consumption.
05
Provides panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic terrain through large glass panels.
The Hverfjall Coffee Shop is an architectural project situated within the volcanic landscape of Hverfjall, Iceland. It serves not only as a coffee shop but also as a visitor center, providing amenities for tourists exploring this significant geological area. The design balances functionality with environmental integration, creating a structure that complements the unique topography of the surrounding landscape.

The coffee shop functions as a respite for visitors, offering a space for relaxation and refreshments while promoting awareness of the geological features in the region. The interior layout is carefully organized to facilitate visitor flow, with distinct areas for dining, information dissemination, and exhibition space dedicated to the volcanic history of Hverfjall. This multifaceted approach enhances visitor experience, encouraging exploration and interaction.

Unique Design Elements and Architectural Approaches

One of the distinctive features of the Hverfjall Coffee Shop is its organic silhouette, inspired by the contours of the surrounding volcanic landforms. The undulating roofline allows the structure to blend into its environment, creating a visually cohesive relationship with the landscape. This design approach minimizes visual disruption, allowing the natural beauty of Hverfjall to take precedence while still providing a functional space.

The choice of materials underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and local context. The primary material, cross-laminated timber (CLT), offers structural support while promoting thermal insulation, contributing to the energy efficiency of the building. Basalt, prevalent in the surrounding landscape, is used for flooring, reinforcing the connection to the local environment. The exterior is clad in wood shingles, reflecting traditional Icelandic architecture while enhancing thermal performance through effective insulation.

Sustainable Practices and Environmental Considerations

The architectural design strategically maximizes natural light through extensive glass panels, which not only reduce the reliance on artificial lighting but also afford visitors stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The building's orientation is intentionally designed to optimize sunlight capture, thus creating a comfortable environment for patrons year-round. This attention to detail with respect to environmental conditions exemplifies an understanding of the site’s climatic challenges and opportunities.

Interior spaces are designed to be inclusive and inviting, accommodating visitors of all demographics. Features such as accessible restrooms and comfortable seating arrangements promote a welcoming atmosphere, while outdoor terraces facilitate an immersive experience in the natural surroundings. This thoughtful configuration enhances the overall visitor experience, ensuring that the coffee shop serves as a key destination within the Hverfjall area.

For those interested in further exploring the architectural design details of the Hverfjall Coffee Shop, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative ideas, we encourage you to delve deeper into the project presentation. This exploration will provide valuable insights into the design intentions and functional aspects that define this unique architectural endeavor.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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