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Charred Wood Shingles and Steel Frame Define a Sustainable Dining Experience in a Greenhouse Setting

Authors:
Ana Hernández, Giovanna Bucio, Homero Ruiz
Charred Wood Shingles and Steel Frame Define a Sustainable Dining Experience in a Greenhouse Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and expansive glass panels, the design integrates a steel frame within an agricultural setting, creating an immersive dining experience that connects guests with local produce.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a double-skin facade for enhanced insulation and energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates a green roof that supports biodiversity and rainwater collection.
03
Features large glazed panels for panoramic views of the Icelandic landscape.
04
Designed with flexible dining spaces to accommodate community events and gatherings.
05
Utilizes locally sourced timber to minimize environmental impact and promote regional materials.
The Dawn Greenhouse Restaurant is a well-considered architectural project located in Mývatn, Iceland, designed to offer an engaging dining experience while emphasizing sustainability and community interaction. The building integrates the functions of a greenhouse with a restaurant, allowing guests to enjoy fresh produce grown on-site. This design serves to connect visitors with the local environment and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

The architecture employs a steel frame structure, constructed for durability against the region's harsh climates. The exterior features a combination of large glass panels and a double-skin facade, promoting energy efficiency while affording panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The use of a green roof further enhances ecological benefits, aiding in temperature regulation and rainwater collection.

Unique Design Approach: Integration of Landscape and Architecture

One of the distinguishing characteristics of The Dawn Greenhouse Restaurant is its response to the local topography. The building’s roofline flows gracefully, reflecting the contours of the Icelandic landscape. This design not only provides aesthetic appeal but also enhances the building’s performance by minimizing wind loads and optimizing solar exposure.

The interior layout includes a spacious dining area capable of accommodating approximately 100 guests, designed with a flexible seating arrangement to foster communal dining experiences. The kitchen incorporates modern appliances and ample space for food preparation, enhancing functionality. A multipurpose space is integrated to facilitate community events and workshops, reinforcing the restaurant's role as a local hub.

Sustainability Features and Materials

The project emphasizes sustainable practices through its thoughtful selection of materials and energy strategies. The primary structural elements consist of hollow structural steel sections, ensuring both strength and adaptability. The facade utilizes wooden components sourced locally, fostering a connection to the surrounding environment. Insulating glass enhances thermal performance, facilitating a comfortable indoor climate.

Solar panels are strategically incorporated to harness renewable energy, while rainwater harvesting systems support irrigation needs for the greenhouse. This focus on local sourcing and renewable energy demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship.

The Dawn Greenhouse Restaurant presents an architectural model that merges function with ecological responsibility. It invites exploration of its architectural plans, sections, and designs to fully appreciate the innovative approaches employed in its development. For those interested in contemporary architecture that prioritizes sustainability and community interaction, further examination of this project is recommended.
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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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