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Crane-Connected Greenhouse Enhancing Food Production Transparency

Authors:
Ivan Zhuk, Anastasia Korchmagina, Nikita Soloviov, German Sokolov
Crane-Connected Greenhouse Enhancing Food Production Transparency

Project in-detail

Connecting two greenhouses with a functioning crane, the design emphasizes process transparency and operational efficiency in a facility dedicated to food production.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crane serves as both a structural and aesthetic feature linking two greenhouses.
02
Design eliminates walls to enhance visibility and interaction throughout the facility.
03
Large windows create direct visual access to food production processes.
04
Focus on energy re-use strategies supports environmental sustainability.
05
Tectonic design responds to Iceland's unique landscape and climatic conditions.

The Mývatn Food Factory is located in the scenic landscapes of Iceland and is designed to merge food production processes with respect for the environment. It functions as both a workspace for food preparation and an engaging venue for visitors. The design emphasizes transparency and connection, allowing guests to witness how their food goes from the farm to their plates.

Architectural Integration

A central feature of the design is a crane that connects two greenhouses and serves both functional and visual purposes. This element highlights the technological aspects of food production while becoming a standout part of the interior. The crane not only facilitates operations but also adds an interesting visual detail to the space.

Spatial Organization

The layout is characterized by open spaces that avoid traditional walls and barriers. This arrangement encourages movement and interaction among different areas, improving user experience. Visitors can see the production process in real-time, strengthening their connection to the food served in the restaurant and letting them observe the journey from growth to preparation.

Operational Efficiency

The organization of facilities within the factory is planned to ensure smooth operations and comfort for employees. Important spaces include areas for processing meat and fish, cold food preparation, and storage for daily products. Staff amenities, such as locker rooms and kitchens, are carefully integrated, promoting efficiency while maintaining connectivity throughout the building.

Environmental Context

The design responds to the landscape it inhabits, ensuring a harmonious fit with the surrounding environment. The building shape complements the natural topography and climatic conditions of Iceland. Strategies for energy management and sun-oriented volumes allow for natural light and lower energy use, reflecting a commitment to sustainability in design.

Large windows provide clear views of the greenhouses, allowing daylight to enter the interior spaces and creating a direct link between guests and the food production process. This openness helps foster an appreciation for the journey their meals undertake, enhancing the overall dining experience.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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