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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 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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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