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Volcanic Concrete Meets Natural Brown in a Sustainable Community Hub

Author:
Camila Ureña Peña
Volcanic Concrete Meets Natural Brown in a Sustainable Community Hub
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Emphasizing volcanic concrete and natural wood finishes, the design seamlessly integrates with its rugged landscape to create an inviting coffee shop that fosters community engagement and a connection to the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Volcanic concrete sourced on-site enhances environmental integration and durability.
02
Curvilinear forms reflect the natural contours of the surrounding landscape.
03
Flexible seating arrangements promote social interaction and adaptability for events.
04
Natural ventilation strategies reduce energy consumption while ensuring comfort.
05
Landscaped courtyards create experiential zones connecting patrons to nature.

The Coffee Shop located at Hverfjall, Iceland, is an architectural design that effectively integrates with the surrounding volcanic landscape. Positioned at the foothills of the Hverfjall volcano, this project serves not just as a coffee shop but as a destination that enhances the visitor experience through its thoughtful design. The architecture reflects an understanding of local geology, climatic conditions, and the need for social interaction in a serene environment.

The primary function of the Coffee Shop is to provide a welcoming space for visitors and locals to enjoy warm beverages while appreciating the natural beauty of the area. The project consists of multiple interconnected structures, each serving a specific purpose. Important areas within the site include an entrance hall, viewing areas for landscape observation, and communal seating spaces. These elements are designed to foster social interaction while promoting a connection to the surrounding environment.

Design Integration with Natural Landscape
The architectural design emphasizes a seamless integration with the environment. Inspired by the contours and forms of the Hverfjall caldera, the building features angular shapes and a rugged aesthetic that mirrors the local topography. The extensive use of tuff concrete, sourced from the surrounding area, minimizes the project's carbon footprint while enhancing its contextual relevance. This choice of material, along with steel for structural components and wood for interior finishes, results in a harmonious palette that underscores the connection between the architecture and the Icelandic landscape. The use of glazing in strategic locations brings natural light indoors and provides unobstructed views of significant geological features, fostering a sense of place and engagement with nature.

Sustainability and User Engagement
The design also prioritizes sustainability through the careful selection of materials and passive climate control strategies. Natural ventilation, thermal mass, and strategic orientation reduce energy needs while allowing for comfortable indoor conditions. The layout promotes a journey through the site, guiding visitors through various outdoor and indoor spaces that enhance their interaction with the landscape. This thoughtful arrangement encourages not only social interactions among patrons but also engagement with the natural surroundings.

For those interested in a more in-depth understanding of this project, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide valuable insights into the unique elements and ideas behind this Coffee Shop at Hverfjall, Iceland.

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

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Competition organisers

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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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