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Volcanic Rock and Glass Facade Elevate Coffee Culture Experience

Author:
Saba Alavi
Volcanic Rock and Glass Facade Elevate Coffee Culture Experience
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An oval space inspired by coffee forms the centerpiece of a building that utilizes volcanic rock and a glass facade, providing a distinctive venue for experiencing coffee culture against the backdrop of Iceland's stunning landscapes.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central oval space mirrors the shape of a coffee bean.
02
Volcanic rock is used to create a strong connection to the local landscape.
03
The glass facade allows for extensive natural light throughout the interior.
04
The building's volume is elevated to preserve surrounding geological features.
05
Design elements are influenced by the region's native sheep horn symbolism.

The Volcano Coffeeshop is located at the bottom of a site, taking advantage of southern light while offering views of the Space Fire Mountain and Lake. The design integrates elements of the local landscape, aiming to enhance the user experience with a focus on both coffee culture and geological features.

Design Concept

The concept draws inspiration from regional symbols, particularly the sheep horn. This theme informs the building's shape, fostering a connection between the architecture and the volcanic terrain. Central to the design is an oval space that resembles a coffee bean, illustrating the bond between the coffee experience and the natural aspects of the site.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the Volcano Coffeeshop separates public and private spaces, allowing for smooth movement and varied experiences. Attention to sightlines ensures that natural light reaches all areas, creating an engaging environment. This thoughtful arrangement not only supports interaction among visitors but also contributes to energy efficiency through effective use of daylight.

Material Choices

Materials in the construction mainly consist of wood and glass. These choices align with the structural needs while also improving environmental performance. The use of glass allows for visual connections to the outdoors, fostering an open atmosphere where interior and exterior spaces feel connected. This transparency is crucial for engaging with the surrounding landscape.

Functional Elements

The design includes various functional areas, such as a kitchen, dining area, exhibition space, and restrooms. Multiple entrances, including an elevator, improve accessibility and ensure the space accommodates diverse visitor needs. The elevated volumetric design also helps protect local volcanic rock formations, minimizing the building's impact on its environment.

With its practical and aesthetic considerations, the Volcano Coffeeshop represents a careful blend of architecture and nature. The roofline gently mirrors the shapes of the nearby mountains, creating a visual link with the landscape that surrounds it.

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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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