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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Create a Community-Driven Greenhouse Experience

Author:
Rithika Ramachandran
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Create a Community-Driven Greenhouse Experience

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and extensive glass surfaces, the design creates an efficient greenhouse that fosters community interaction and supports local agriculture.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and fire resistance while creating a unique visual texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels support rapid assembly and provide structural stability.
03
The bent A-frame design allows efficient natural light distribution within the greenhouse.
04
Local materials were prioritized to minimize transportation emissions and support regional industries.
05
Flexible multipurpose spaces adapt to various community activities and events, fostering engagement.
The architectural project at Voga fíós, Iceland, emphasizes sustainability and community integration through its design. This facility primarily serves as a communal greenhouse and marketplace, promoting local food production and fostering social interactions among residents. The project's layout is strategically configured to create a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the surrounding natural landscape, with carefully considered zoning that facilitates various functions such as farming, dining, and community events.

One of the unique aspects of this project is its architectural approach to local materiality. The design incorporates wood and stone to create a robust exterior that resonates with traditional Icelandic architecture while optimizing the use of natural resources. Large expanses of glass are utilized not only to enhance the aesthetic quality but also to harness sunlight, crucial for the greenhouse's agricultural function. This consideration allows for effective thermal management and efficient energy use.

The spatial organization promotes interaction among users, featuring designated areas for farming, commercial activities, and public engagement. Through open pathways and visual sight-lines, the design encourages movement and connectivity, catering to individual needs and fostering a sense of community ownership. The integration of local agricultural practices with elements like a produce shop reinforces an ecological approach, supporting the local economy and promoting sustainable living.

Another distinctive feature of this project is its flexible layout. The incorporation of multipurpose spaces allows for adaptability, accommodating different types of events and activities. This versatility ensures that the facility can evolve with the community's needs over time, making it a vital resource for social and economic development within the region.

The choice of materials aligns with the sustainability goals outlined in the project, employing compressed earth blocks for interior finishes that enhance the thermal properties of the building while minimizing environmental impact. This thoughtful consideration of materiality reflects a commitment to eco-friendly architecture that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

For a comprehensive understanding of this project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Delve into the architectural designs and ideas that shape this unique community-focused facility, providing deeper insights into its operational and aesthetic frameworks.
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MICROHOME
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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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