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Charred Wooden Shingles and Native Concrete Form an Integrated Greenhouse in Iceland

Authors:
Kiruban Punniyanathan, Daniel Dayupay, Alessio Puglisi, Nicolas Barberot
Charred Wooden Shingles and Native Concrete Form an Integrated Greenhouse in Iceland

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through charred wooden shingles and local concrete, the greenhouse facility seamlessly merges agricultural production with hospitality, inviting visitors to engage with nature in the breathtaking Myvatn region of Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
The greenhouse utilizes locally sourced native concrete to enhance environmental sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles are employed to improve durability while integrating with the natural landscape.
03
A bent A-frame design not only provides structural support but also optimizes natural light intake.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems facilitate irrigation and minimize water waste across the facility.
05
The design includes interactive educational spaces that promote community engagement with sustainable practices.
The architectural project at hand is a greenhouse facility situated in the Myvatn region of Iceland. This design not only embraces the local landscape but also embodies a commitment to sustainability, functionality, and community engagement. The facility represents a modern approach to agricultural production alongside hospitality services, creating a unique environment that nourishes both the body and the soul.

At the core of the project is the concept of integrating indoor and outdoor spaces to foster a deeper connection with nature. The architectural design is characterized by its use of local materials, namely concrete, glass, and timber, which not only reflect the region’s natural resources but also define the environmental ethos of the project. The choice of native concrete reduces the carbon footprint associated with construction, while the extensive use of glass allows for abundant natural light, enhancing the interior experience and connecting users with the surrounding landscape.

The greenhouse itself serves as the primary functional space of the facility. This area is meticulously designed to accommodate a range of plants, offering a farm-to-table approach where visitors can engage with the agricultural process firsthand. Importantly, the design incorporates a multipurpose room adjacent to the greenhouse, allowing for educational workshops and community gatherings. This aspect reinforces the project’s role as a social hub, bringing together local residents and visitors in a shared environment that emphasizes learning and connection.

The entrance and reception area are thoughtfully placed to welcome guests, featuring clear lines of sight that guide visitors seamlessly towards the core experiences of the greenhouse and catering area. This layout exemplifies a user-friendly design, ensuring that movement throughout the space feels intuitive and engaging. The integration of an open kitchen in the catering section establishes a transparent cooking process, inviting guests to witness how fresh produce from the greenhouse transforms into culinary delights.

The architectural design demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability beyond material choice. The sloped roof enables efficient rainwater collection, which is redirected to irrigation systems for the gardens and for sanitary use within the facility. Additionally, the project capitalizes on the geothermal energy resources characteristic of Iceland, providing a sustainable heating solution that further minimizes environmental impact.

The project stands out due to its unique approach to marrying hospitality with agricultural education. This dual-purpose functionality not only draws visitors but also promotes environmental awareness and appreciation for local food production practices. By establishing this synergy, the design encourages a dialogue around sustainability while fostering community connections.

Exploring this architectural project offers insights into how thoughtful design can contribute to a greater understanding of local ecosystems and sustainable practices. For those interested in delving deeper into the project's intentions, architectural plans, sections, and designs can be reviewed to appreciate the intricacies and strategies employed throughout. Engaging with these elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of the architect's vision and the enduring impacts of this design on the Myvatn region.
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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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