The Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant combines dining with a series of greenhouses, located near the Mývatn nature baths and Hverfjall volcano. The design emphasizes sustainability while providing an experience that connects visitors to the environment. It focuses on crafting pathways that guide guests through the landscape, allowing them to observe both food production and the striking natural beauty around them.

Spatial Organization

The layout is carefully planned to include various functional areas. A pathway leads from the parking area, establishing a link with the sloping terrain. As visitors follow this path, they approach the greenhouses with transparency provided by tinted glass. The restaurant is initially hidden from sight, creating a sense of anticipation that culminates in a broad view of the Icelandic landscape once inside. This arrangement enhances the overall visitor experience, highlighting the transition from outside to inside.

Multi-Purpose Functionality

Included in the design is a multi-purpose hall that extends the dining area. This space allows for flexibility, accommodating different types of events. This practical feature reflects a modern approach to dining, where the space can adapt to various needs without losing its cohesive feel. The entrance, together with the greenhouse and potential expansions, forms a sheltered courtyard, offering an inviting outdoor area for visitors to enjoy.

Materiality and Sustainability

A thoughtfully chosen set of materials relates closely to the surrounding volcanic landscape and emphasizes sustainable building practices. Cembrit roof tiles give a nod to the rugged terrain, while cross-laminated timber frames provide an effective means of construction. Polished concrete and traditional cut timber enhance smaller partition walls, creating functional divisions that also maintain an organic feel. A heavy concrete slab anchors the structure to the site, establishing intimate dining spaces that connect visitors to the topography.

Design Integration

The relationship between the greenhouse and restaurant is central to the design's vision. The kitchen is placed centrally, with direct access to the greenhouses. This layout improves efficiency and ensures visibility from the dining areas. The greenhouse is divided into sections that allow for specific climate control, supporting a variety of plant growth. This focus on sustainable food production aligns with the overall goals of the facility. The combination of dining and greenhouse spaces encourages educational engagement and interaction with nature, allowing guests to experience local ingredients firsthand.

The design culminates in an environment that supports culinary exploration while inviting visitors to connect with nature. It celebrates the relationship between food and the Icelandic landscape, offering a rich experience in both taste and visual beauty.