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-Inspired FRP Structure Enhancing Visitor Experience at Hverfjall

Author:
Jun-hyeon Park
Volcanic-Inspired FRP Structure Enhancing Visitor Experience at Hverfjall

Project in-detail

Inspired by the shapes of volcanic rock, the structure utilizes Fiber Reinforced Polymer to create an inviting café and exhibition space that enhances the visitor experience at Hverfjall.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the textures of volcanic rock, the façade creates a strong visual connection to the landscape.
02
The use of Fiber Reinforced Polymer allows for a lightweight yet durable construction method.
03
Clear circulation paths enhance visitor interaction with both the building and the surrounding environment.
04
Multi-functional furniture design is influenced by the local geography, promoting a cohesive aesthetic.
05
Prefabrication methods address logistical challenges due to the remote site location.

The architectural design known as "Coincidental Reminiscence" is situated in the striking landscape of Hverfjall, Iceland. This structure serves as both a café and an exhibition space, designed to engage visitors while providing insights into the significance of the Hverfjall volcano. The goal is to create a building that connects with the surrounding environment and enhances the overall experience of those who visit.

Design Concept

The central idea behind the design is to highlight the natural beauty of the area through a carefully crafted space. The café accommodates 95 seats indoors, with an additional 40 seats available outdoors. This layout not only encourages patrons to enjoy their food and drink but also invites them to appreciate the views of the Icelandic landscape. Key features include an information desk, workstations, a photo area, a beacon, and spaces for exhibitions, all aimed at enriching the visitor experience.

Facade Design

The façade stands out as a major component of the design, drawing inspiration from the unique characteristics of volcanic rock found in the region. To create this visual identity, the design process involves selecting, extracting, and arranging surface elements in a thoughtful way. This attention to detail allows the building to reflect the geological features of its surroundings. In addition, the project incorporates multi-functional furniture, such as stools inspired by the natural weathering of the area's rocks, which enhances both form and functionality.

Construction Methodology

The location's distance from urban centers necessitates a focus on prefabrication in the construction process. This method improves efficiency while ensuring that each element fits together well on-site. The design features a non-traditional surface profile that moves away from smooth curves, presenting a different approach to building aesthetics. Materials mentioned include Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) and concrete blocks, which are chosen for their strength and ability to withstand the local climate conditions.

Final Design Detail

Visitor engagement is a key design consideration, with clear pathways connecting various spaces during the journey through the building. This layout encourages exploration and interaction, allowing guests to appreciate both the structure and the landscape. Each element of the design aims to create a meaningful experience that resonates with the natural environment of Hverfjall, enhancing the overall encounter for all who come to visit.

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