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Basalt-Inspired Design with Transparent Facades and Multifunctional Greenhouse Dining Spaces

Authors:
Paweł Tryzybowicz, Mateusz Trojanowski
Basalt-Inspired Design with Transparent Facades and Multifunctional Greenhouse Dining Spaces

Project in-detail

Constructed from basalt-inspired materials and characterized by expansive transparent facades, the restaurant integrates a multifunctional greenhouse to emphasize sustainability while providing a unique dining experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using basalt-inspired concrete to reflect local geological features.
02
Integrates a multifunctional greenhouse that provides fresh produce for the restaurant.
03
Features bent A-frame design to enhance natural light and views of the surroundings.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
05
Designed to optimize energy efficiency through passive solar heating and thermal mass.
The Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant is a carefully conceived architectural project that integrates dining, agriculture, and sustainability within a single structure. Located in a picturesque landscape, the design embodies a commitment to ecological responsibility while delivering a unique culinary experience. The restaurant serves not only as a dining venue but also as a space for educational interactions regarding local agriculture.

The building is structured to house multiple functional areas: a greenhouse, restaurant, kitchen, multipurpose hall, technical spaces, and staff offices. This layout promotes efficiency and flexibility in use, accommodating a wide range of events from everyday dining to special occasions. The design focuses on blurring boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing guests to appreciate the surrounding environment while enjoying their meals.

The overarching concept of the project draws from Iceland's distinctive geological landscape. The use of materials such as concrete, glass, wood, and steel creates a design that is both modern and contextually relevant. Concrete provides structural stability, while extensive glass facades allow natural light to penetrate deep into the interiors, fostering a visual connection with the exterior landscapes. The warm tones of wood finishes introduce a sense of comfort and a traditional touch, relating back to Nordic architectural customs.

The integration of a greenhouse is what distinctly positions this project within the culinary landscape. It serves as both a source of fresh produce for the restaurant and an interactive area for patrons. This feature supports a farm-to-table philosophy that emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing, catering to contemporary dining trends that prioritize environmentally friendly practices. Additionally, the greenhouse allows visitors to engage with the cultivation process, providing insights into the ingredients that make up their meals.

The design incorporates climate-responsive strategies, addressing the local climatic conditions effectively. The thermal mass of the concrete helps regulate indoor temperatures, while the orientation of glass elements maximizes passive solar heating. This ensures the building remains comfortable year-round, reducing dependency on artificial heating and cooling systems.

The architectural design is characterized by its cellular layout, allowing for interconnected spaces that are both intuitive and inviting. This approach not only enhances the flow of movement throughout the building, but also creates a sense of discovery for guests as they transition between areas of the restaurant and the greenhouse.

For those interested in studying this project further, reviewing its architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas will provide a deeper understanding of the thoughtful considerations behind the Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant. Exploring these elements will yield insights into the design's sustainable practices and functional aesthetics, offering valuable lessons in modern architecture.
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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
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