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Aquaponics and Living Walls Enhancing Community Engagement Through Sustainable Dining

Authors:
Olivia Herbert, Dillon Brandt
Aquaponics and Living Walls Enhancing Community Engagement Through Sustainable Dining
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The integration of vertical aquaponics and living walls within a multifunctional space fosters community engagement while promoting sustainable dining practices in a contemporary restaurant and event hall.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical aquaponics systems combined with dining areas provide fresh produce directly to the kitchen.
02
A living wall enhances air quality while offering a vibrant aesthetic within the restaurant space.
03
The incorporation of a trombe wall supports energy efficiency through passive solar heating.
04
Educational programs on food cultivation are integrated into the community experience.
05
Natural materials throughout the design create a strong connection to the surrounding environment.

Vogafjos Gardens is a contemporary project that highlights the connection between food, community, and education. Located in a setting that embraces nature, this space combines the functions of a restaurant and an event hall. The design promotes the idea of communal dining, allowing visitors to engage in shared experiences that center around culinary culture. Its overall concept emphasizes the role of food in fostering social bonds while also integrating sustainable agricultural practices.

Design Concept

The focus is on rethinking food as a platform for social interaction and cultural traditions. By blending dining with educational spaces, the design creates an environment where guests can learn about growing food while participating in community events. This combination reinforces the importance of food preparation and the heritage that comes with it.

Functional Integration

Key elements include a restaurant, an event hall, and an integrated greenhouse. The arrangement encourages visitors to connect with the gardens, emphasizing the relationship between where food comes from and how it is served. Community event spaces have been thoughtfully included to promote discussions around nurturing culinary traditions, adding depth to the experience.

Sustainability Features

Innovations like vertical aquaponics and a herbal garden reflect a forward-thinking approach to agriculture within the space. These features contribute to the project’s visual character and support sustainable food practices. A trombe wall is included for energy efficiency, making use of passive solar design to enhance the environmental performance of the structure.

Natural Aesthetics

A living wall integrates natural elements into the design, improving air quality and helping to regulate temperature. This connection to greenery enhances the overall look of the project while aligning with sustainable ideals. The result is an engaging environment that illustrates the relationship between architecture, food cultivation, and community interaction.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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