Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Volcanic Ash Terracotta Coffee Shop Engaging With Iceland's Landscape

Authors:
Stefania Fleck, Daniella Calma, Gustavo Pardo
Volcanic Ash Terracotta Coffee Shop Engaging With Iceland's Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed using volcanic ash terracotta, the coffee shop integrates with Iceland’s unique landscape, offering visitors a functional space for community engagement while enhancing the surrounding natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Volcanic ash terracotta is used for both the roof and rain screen cladding.
02
The building features a modular configuration that promotes spatial flexibility.
03
Integration with Iceland's unique geological features is a key design focus.
04
Acoustic batten wood panels enhance comfort in communal areas.
05
Pre-engineered metal framework streamlines construction and support.

The Hverfjall Volcano Coffee Shop is located in Iceland, situated to engage with the surrounding volcanic landscape. The design allows for communal use, offering various spaces for visitors, including both operational areas and exhibition zones. The plan focuses on blending with the natural environment. The goal is to create a building that feels like a part of the landscape rather than an intrusion.

Architectural Configuration

The design follows a modular approach, featuring two distinct volumes arranged along an axis. This setup promotes interaction and movement, harmonizing with the site's geography. One module serves the main functions of the coffee shop, while the other is dedicated to exhibitions, enhancing the visitor experience by providing a connection to the landscape.

Material Organization

Materials were chosen for both their practical and aesthetic qualities. The roof is made of volcanic ash terracotta tiles, reflecting the local geology and improving thermal performance. Insulation, both rigid and semi-rigid, contributes to energy efficiency, while waterproofing layers and exterior sheathing help the building withstand harsh weather conditions.

Facade Design

The facade features volcanic ash terracotta rain screen cladding, which supports moisture management and connects visually to the natural environment. Inside, acoustic batten wood panels and ceilings create a pleasant auditory atmosphere, making public spaces comfortable for visitors.

Structural Considerations

The supporting framework is made from pre-engineered metal, providing both strength and simplicity in construction. Concrete footings and slabs form a stable base necessary for enduring the local landscape's challenges.

The combination of thoughtful design choices, practical materials, and a strong structural system results in a coffee shop that invites visitors to connect with its unique setting, offering a place for relaxation and interaction amid Iceland's natural beauty.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy