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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing in a Sustainable Culinary Haven

Authors:
Horacio Goitre, Gonzalo Zegarra, Mateo Peschiera, Mariana Nájar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing in a Sustainable Culinary Haven

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through charred wooden shingles and expansive glazing, the design showcases a seamless connection between a greenhouse and a restaurant that celebrates local agriculture and culinary experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a greenhouse directly into the dining experience, allowing guests to connect with food production.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for durability while enhancing fire resistance in a volcanic environment.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity, optimizing the use of local timber resources.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to create dynamic interior spaces that maximize natural light and views.
05
Incorporates aluminum louvers to manage sun exposure and ventilation, enhancing energy efficiency throughout the year.
The architectural project "Volcánico" is a thoughtfully designed space located in the dramatic volcanic landscape of Iceland. This project adeptly combines function and aesthetic appeal, showcasing how modern architecture can resonate with its environment while addressing contemporary needs. "Volcánico" represents a harmonious blend of agricultural practice and culinary experience, making it a unique venue where visitors can appreciate the journey from farm to table.

At its core, the project serves two primary functions: a restaurant and an agricultural greenhouse. The design acknowledges and celebrates local food production, encouraging sustainable practices that are vital to Iceland's environment. The restaurant is designed to provide an inviting atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor dining options that immerse guests in the natural beauty surrounding the area. Ample glass façades ensure that visitors can enjoy unobstructed views of the volcanic landscape, creating a deeper connection to the locale.

One of the most important aspects of the project is its careful attention to spatial organization. The layout is strategically arranged to facilitate smooth circulation between the restaurant and greenhouse areas, promoting interaction between these spaces. The emphasis on natural light throughout the building enhances both the dining experience and the greenhouse's ability to thrive. This clever design allows for an educational aspect of the project, where visitors can learn about local agriculture and the culinary arts.

The materiality of "Volcánico" plays a crucial role in enhancing its overall design. The use of steel for the structural framework provides a durable yet flexible base for the building, while the glass roof allows for optimal sunlight exposure. Aluminum louvers are incorporated to regulate temperature and light, contributing to a comfortable environment. The external wooden flooring offers a natural touch that connects the indoor spaces with the outdoor landscape. Concrete block walls provide structural integrity while contributing to thermal comfort.

An innovative aspect of "Volcánico" is its approach to sustainability. The project employs environmentally responsive design principles by integrating local materials and practices that strive to minimize the carbon footprint. This not only benefits the environment but also reinforces the connection between the building and its geographic context. The greenhouse serves as a vital educational resource, promoting awareness of sustainable food systems and local farming methods, which appeals to both tourists and locals.

The unique design approaches found in "Volcánico" extend to the interplay between architecture and nature. The structure's orientation emphasizes the surrounding volcanic vistas, enhancing the guests' experience while dining or engaging with the greenhouse. By grounding the architectural design in the regional landscape, the project fosters a sense of place that resonates with visitors.

Overall, "Volcánico" aims to bridge the gap between agricultural production and the culinary arts while promoting conversations around sustainability and community. Its blend of modern architectural design with local agricultural practices positions it as a model for future projects in similar environments. The integration of thoughtful spatial organization, careful material selection, and an emphasis on ecological awareness creates a space that is welcoming and educational.

For those interested in exploring this project further, it is recommended to review architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that informed this design. The combination of innovative elements and the sustainable ethos of "Volcánico" offers important insights into how architecture can engage meaningfully with both the environment and the community it serves.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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