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

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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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