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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Enclosure Melding Nature with Dining Experience

Author:
Hui Guo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Enclosure Melding Nature with Dining Experience

Project in-detail

Emphasizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass panels, this architecture seamlessly integrates with Iceland's rugged terrain to provide a nurturing dining experience enriched by local ingredients.
5 key facts about this project
01
The restaurant incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance while contributing to the building's unique aesthetic.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for effective rainwater management and adds visual interest to the silhouette.
04
The second floor features a greenhouse garden that supplies fresh ingredients for the restaurant's menu.
05
Natural light infiltration is maximized through large glass panels, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments.
The Moulting Melting Greenhouse Restaurant in Iceland represents a thoughtful interaction between architecture and nature, effectively integrating local landscapes with a modern design ethos. This project is more than just a dining venue; it stands as a cultural and environmental statement, echoing the complexities of Iceland's unique geology and ecology. It is a space that encourages visitors to engage with their surroundings while enjoying culinary experiences that celebrate local ingredients and traditions.

The design of the restaurant emphasizes transparency and connection, primarily through the use of expansive glass panels that allow natural light to pour into the interior spaces. These glass elements not only create a visual connection between the indoor and outdoor environments but also embody the concept of a greenhouse, symbolizing growth, nourishment, and community. The structure's elongated form appears to melt into the terrain, harmonizing with the natural contours and embracing the rugged beauty of the Icelandic landscape.

Functionally, the Moulting Melting Greenhouse Restaurant is designed to accommodate a variety of dining experiences. The first floor features a spacious dining area complemented by flexible halls that can be adapted for different events. This versatility enhances its role as a community hub and enables it to host everything from intimate dinners to larger gatherings. The presence of a gallery space further enriches the visitor experience, merging culinary offerings with visual art, thereby promoting local culture and creativity.

The second floor functions as a greenhouse garden, immersing diners in an environment that celebrates the flora of the region. This thoughtful inclusion not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also emphasizes sustainability, as the garden can be a source of ingredients for the restaurant. Connecting different levels is a spiral staircase, which encourages exploration and interaction within the building while showcasing the seamless flow of design.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall design. The use of wood introduces warmth and texture, complementing the sleekness of glass and metal elements. Concrete provides structural stability, grounding the restaurant firmly into its site. Each material has been selected with care, considering both visual impact and environmental sustainability. These choices reflect the project's commitment to an ecological approach, supporting the broader conversation surrounding responsible architecture.

The unique design approach of this project lies in its ability to convey a sense of metamorphosis and belonging. The architecture speaks to themes of transformation, linking the physical space to the emotional experiences of its users. By addressing the dynamic relationship between human activity and nature, the design fosters a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship within its patrons.

This project invites its audience to explore further through architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that reveal the intricacies of its layout and material choices. The Moulting Melting Greenhouse Restaurant stands as a testament to the power of architecture to create spaces that resonate with their surroundings while catering to the needs and experiences of visitors. For more insights into this project, including its innovative architectural ideas and detailed design elements, explore the comprehensive project presentation.
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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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