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Charred Wood Shingles and Thermal Glass Embrace Nature in a Sustainable Dining Experience

Author:
Yanet Berhanu
Charred Wood Shingles and Thermal Glass Embrace Nature in a Sustainable Dining Experience

Project in-detail

Inspired by the natural landscape, the restaurant seamlessly integrates charred wood shingles and expansive thermal glass to create a sustainable dining space that connects patrons with the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes triple-glazed thermal glass to enhance energy efficiency while providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Incorporates a green roof system to manage rainwater and promote local biodiversity.
03
Features an open kitchen design that allows diners to engage directly with the culinary process.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles as a weather-resistant material that blends with the volcanic terrain.
05
Designed with flexible spaces that can adapt for various functions, enhancing community engagement.
The Evergreen Garden Restaurant is a thoughtfully designed architectural project situated in the Myvatn region of Iceland. This restaurant exemplifies a fusion of innovative architecture and a commitment to sustainability, serving as a welcoming space for dining while closely engaging with its natural surroundings. The project embodies a deep respect for the landscape, creating a harmonious relationship between the built environment and its ecological context.

The primary function of the Evergreen Garden Restaurant is to provide a unique dining experience that enriches the patron's connection to nature. With a layout that integrates dining areas, an open kitchen, and outdoor terraces, the space is designed to host diverse activities, from casual meals to formal gatherings. The interior is illuminated by an abundance of natural light, thanks to expansive triple-glazed thermal glass facades that not only offer breathtaking views but also serve as a thermally efficient barrier against the often-challenging Icelandic climate. This thoughtful approach to glazing enhances the restaurant's energy efficiency while creating an inviting atmosphere for guests.

The material palette chosen for this project reflects a commitment to sustainability and harmony with the environment. Key elements include steel framing that provides structural integrity alongside polished concrete finishes that create a modern aesthetic. Elegant wooden finishes complement the space, fostering a warm and natural ambiance. Additionally, the inclusion of a green roof system emphasizes environmental stewardship, helping to manage rainwater and promote biodiversity while adding aesthetic value to the overall design.

The design draws attention to unique architectural features. The open kitchen concept allows guests to observe the culinary process, fostering transparency and enhancing their dining experience. This approach connects patrons to the food they consume, amplifying the farm-to-table philosophy and encouraging appreciation for the ingredients and effort that go into their meals. Furthermore, the incorporation of recreational terraces allows guests to step outside and engage with the lush greenery and picturesque views surrounding the restaurant, enriching the overall experience.

Spatial organization plays a crucial role in the functionality of the Evergreen Garden Restaurant. The multi-functional hall is designed to adapt to different events, promoting flexibility and community engagement. By thoughtfully zoning the areas for kitchen operations and dining, the design ensures efficiency in service while maintaining strong connections to the greenhouse and the landscape beyond.

This architectural project stretches beyond mere aesthetics; it represents an ethos of responsible design that seeks to enhance the natural environment rather than detract from it. By embracing climate-sensitive principles and using sustainable materials, the Evergreen Garden Restaurant stands as a model for future architectural endeavors, demonstrating that it is possible to create spaces that are both beautiful and environmentally conscious.

For those interested in delving deeper into this architectural project, a closer examination of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide invaluable insights into the innovative ideas and solutions that characterize the Evergreen Garden Restaurant. Exploring these elements will reveal the thoughtful intricacies behind this unique project, showcasing how architecture can thoughtfully intertwine with nature to produce a cohesive and engaging space for all who visit.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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