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Charred Wooden Shingles and Volcanic Rock Form a Sustainable Culinary Hub in Iceland

Authors:
Boris Papeians, Marine Burtonboy, Julien de Muynck
Charred Wooden Shingles and Volcanic Rock Form a Sustainable Culinary Hub in Iceland

Project in-detail

With a design that incorporates charred wooden shingles and local volcanic rock, the building offers a sustainable culinary experience that harmonizes with its Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates an open kitchen that allows guests to view food preparation processes.
03
Features a greenhouse with an integrated aquaponics system for sustainable food sourcing.
04
Designed to minimize light pollution, offering clear views of the night sky.
05
Constructed with local volcanic rock to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
RATILJÖST is an architectural project located in Iceland, designed to serve as both a culinary destination and a horticultural hub. The building integrates seamlessly into the surrounding volcanic landscape, making a deliberate effort to connect visitors with the natural environment. With a focus on sustainability, this project emphasizes the use of local materials and innovative agricultural practices to enhance the visitor experience.

The primary function of RATILJÖST is to provide a space for dining and interaction with sustainable food practices. It includes an open kitchen, a greenhouse featuring aquaponics, and communal dining areas that encourage engagement with the local landscape. The design allows visitors to participate in food selection, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the food production process.

Unique Approaches to Design
RATILJÖST distinguishes itself through its thoughtful integration with the Icelandic environment. The architectural form is inspired by local geological features, creating a structure that blends with the volcanic terrain. Extensive use of glass walls enhances natural lighting and offers unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, allowing diners to immerse themselves in the scenery.

This project prioritizes minimizing light pollution, making it possible for visitors to enjoy clear views of the night sky while dining. The architectural design incorporates green roofs, which contribute to insulation and promote biodiversity. This approach not only reflects ecological considerations but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building.

Sustainable Practices and Spatial Organization
The layout of RATILJÖST provides distinct zones for different activities, allowing for efficient visitor flow and organization. The culinary area is centrally located, featuring an open kitchen design that adds transparency to food preparation. Surrounding dining spaces offer various seating configurations, promoting social interaction.

Incorporating aquaponics and greenhouse areas within the project enables visitors to engage with sustainable food systems directly. Pocket gardens are distributed throughout the site, further connecting the architecture with the landscape. This environmentally conscious design emphasizes educational aspects, promoting awareness of sustainability in food production.

Explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural designs associated with RATILJÖST for a comprehensive understanding of its innovative approaches and functional aspects. Delve into the architectural ideas that make this project a relevant example of modern sustainable architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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