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Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Integration in a Sustainable Greenhouse Dining Experience

Authors:
Wong Lapzhen, Erik ung hieng Yek
Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Integration in a Sustainable Greenhouse Dining Experience

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood shingles and expansive glass panels, the design fosters a seamless connection between indoor agriculture and outdoor landscapes, creating an engaging dining environment focused on sustainable culinary practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates green roof systems to enhance insulation and promote biodiversity.
02
Features extensive use of glass for maximizing natural light and visibility of crops.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Integrates an interactive farming experience directly accessible to diners.
05
Employs a bent A-frame design, optimizing structural integrity and space efficiency.

The Jólasveinar Greenhouse and Restaurant is an architectural project located in Iceland that combines agricultural practices with a unique dining experience. This facility is designed to showcase the synergy between food production and culinary service, serving both locals and visitors. The architecture of the greenhouse is structured to incorporate locally relevant materials while optimizing environmental conditions for plant growth and guest interaction.

Unique Characteristics of Design and Functionality

This project stands out for its multifunctional approach, allowing the greenhouse to function as both a space for cultivating crops and a venue for dining. The architectural design emphasizes transparency through extensive use of glass, offering patrons views of the surrounding landscape and the agricultural processes at work within the facility. The use of dark concrete, timber, and a steel framework contributes to the project’s resilience and aesthetic, echoing the site’s volcanic geology. The green roof systems not only enhance insulation but also promote biodiversity, creating a sustainable ecosystem.

The design incorporates interactive elements where visitors can engage directly with the farming process. This aspect is significant, as it encourages learning about sustainable food practices and fosters a deeper appreciation for local agriculture.

Integration of Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is central to the project's vision. The architectural design employs renewable energy sources and innovative farming techniques, supporting the functional aspects of the greenhouse while minimizing environmental impacts. The layout promotes easy circulation, allowing visitors to navigate seamlessly between production areas and dining spaces. This thoughtful arrangement is designed to enhance the overall experience, making the connection between food, farming, and culinary enjoyment more tangible.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that underscore the Jólasveinar project, the visual and technical details of this innovative project are available for exploration. By reviewing these elements, one can gain a clearer understanding of how the architectural ideas manifest in both its operational and experiential aspects.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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