Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Volcanic Stone Café Integrated with Earth-Sheltering Techniques for Sustainable Visitor Experience

Authors:
Qian Zhang, Zhilei Xu, Jue Wang, Xianzhe Cheng, Zhilei Xu, Jue Wang, Xianzhe Cheng
Volcanic Stone Café Integrated with Earth-Sheltering Techniques for Sustainable Visitor Experience

Project in-detail

Emerging from the volcanic landscape, a coffee shop uses local stone and earth-sheltering techniques to create an immersive visitor experience while promoting awareness of the surrounding natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Volcanic stone sourced from the immediate area enhances the building's integration with its landscape.
02
The earth-sheltering design minimizes environmental impact and improves thermal performance.
03
Large glass panels maximize natural light and frame views of Hverfjall volcano.
04
Flexibility in interior spaces allows for various functions and community activities.
05
Circular skylights create dynamic lighting effects throughout the day, enriching the visitor experience.
The Hverfjall Rocky Coffee Shop is an architectural project situated within the unique volcanic landscape of Iceland. This facility serves as a visitor hub for those exploring the Hverfjall volcano, promoting both relaxation and social interaction. The design emphasizes integration with the natural environment, striving to create a harmonious relationship between the structure and its surroundings.

This project functions primarily as a coffee shop but goes beyond mere commercial offerings. It also serves educational purposes by providing information about the geological features of the region. The architecture reflects a commitment to sustainability through its use of local materials and its energy-efficient design strategies.

The building features a flowing layout with distinct but interconnected areas. The main space is designed for social engagement, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments while maintaining visual connections to the landscape. Accessory zones accommodate exhibitions and educational displays, contributing to the overall mission of informing visitors.

A noteworthy aspect of this project is its site responsiveness. The design incorporates an earth-sheltering strategy, utilizing the thermal mass of the ground to enhance energy efficiency in terms of heating and cooling. This approach reduces reliance on conventional energy sources, aligning with contemporary sustainability goals. The use of locally sourced stone for certain structural elements further imbues the building with a sense of place, seamlessly blending it with the volcanic terrain.

The architectural form is characterized by the use of smooth concrete, yielding a rugged yet refined appearance that mimics the surrounding volcanic rock. Large glass panels allow for abundant natural light and facilitate views of the external landscape, optimizing the visitor experience. Circular skylights introduce dynamic lighting conditions, changing throughout the day and enhancing the spatial quality of the interiors.

In summary, the Hverfjall Rocky Coffee Shop exemplifies modern architectural practices that prioritize sustainability and site integration. The design effectively combines functionality with a deep respect for the natural environment. For a more detailed exploration of architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to review the project's presentation.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 16,979 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