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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
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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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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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