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Charred Wood Exteriors and Glass Facades Integrated Into a Culinary Greenhouse Experience

Author:
Chie ping Boo
Charred Wood Exteriors and Glass Facades Integrated Into a Culinary Greenhouse Experience

Project in-detail

Charred wood exteriors complement expansive glass facades to create a sustainable greenhouse restaurant that bridges the gap between agricultural education and culinary experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance while enhancing the building's aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Expansive glass facades maximize natural light and create views of the surrounding landscape.
04
An integrated hydroponic system supports food production on-site for the restaurant.
05
The bent A-frame design allows for natural ventilation and unique spatial experiences.

The "House of Wonders" is an architectural project situated near the Mývatn Nature Baths in Iceland. This structure functions as a combined greenhouse and restaurant, promoting an immersive experience that connects visitors with Iceland's natural landscape and agricultural practices. The design reflects an ecotourism ethos, emphasizing sustainability, local produce, and culinary education.

Integration with the environment is a key feature of the architecture. Large glass surfaces facilitate transparency and visual engagement with the surrounding landscape, enhancing the dining experience while promoting light and ventilation. The project incorporates a predominantly open floor plan, allowing for a fluid movement between spaces, including dining areas, educational zones, and active greenhouse sections.

Sustainable practices underpin the project’s design. The use of geothermal energy and solar panels aims to minimize its ecological footprint, adhering to Iceland's commitment to environmental stewardship. What distinguishes this project from others in the region is its dual-purpose nature, merging culinary experiences with agricultural education. Visitors can engage directly with food production, observe growing processes, and understand the farm-to-table philosophy in practice.

Architectural elements such as wood, glass, concrete, and steel work cohesively to support the structure while maintaining a modern aesthetic. The extensive use of glass not only serves functional purposes but also cultivates an environment filled with natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere for diners.

The design emphasizes user experience by encouraging interaction with both the food and the natural world. This is realized through open kitchen concepts, accessible pathways, and thoughtfully designed spaces that invite exploration. The unique positioning of the building captures panoramic views of the iconic Icelandic landscape, contributing to the overall experience of the "House of Wonders."

For a comprehensive understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, exploring the complete project presentation is recommended. This will provide insights into how the architecture harmonizes with the surrounding nature and the innovative approaches adopted throughout the design process.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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