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Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Embracing Seasonal Views and Natural Integration

Author:
Roger Landivar
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Embracing Seasonal Views and Natural Integration

Project in-detail

The structure's cross-laminated timber design allows for expansive seasonal views while integrating a green roof for rainwater collection, effectively serving as a sustainable restaurant in Iceland's unique landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Expansive glass facades allow for uninterrupted views of the Icelandic landscape.
03
The green roof supports local biodiversity and facilitates rainwater collection.
04
A multipurpose upper floor offers adaptability for various community activities.
05
Seasonal openings in the facade enhance indoor-outdoor connectivity during pleasant weather.

The Green House Restaurant stands out in the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, where volcanic terrain meets calm lakes. It serves a dual purpose: providing fresh food and a unique dining experience. The design emphasizes a close relationship with nature, highlighting sustainability and connection. Guests can feel engaged with their surroundings, enhancing their overall experience.

Design Concept and Space Organization

The layout consists of three main areas. The Green House focuses on food production and dining. The Kitchen and Service Areas are dedicated to operational tasks. Finally, the Multipurpose Space on the upper floor provides additional flexibility. This organization not only improves the flow of activities but also invites guests to explore and interact with the culinary aspects of their visit.

Materiality and Aesthetic Choices

Large glass facades wrap around the building, offering uninterrupted views of the beautiful scenery. These facades add to the overall look of the restaurant. They also allow parts of the building to open during different seasons, letting in fresh air and light. This feature strengthens the connection between the indoor dining space and the outdoor environment, regardless of the weather.

Functionality and Flexibility

The ground floor has a mix of spaces. Areas for the greenhouse, guest reception, bar, and dining are all thoughtfully organized for ease of use. The upper floor contains a multipurpose space connected by a striking staircase and a panoramic elevator. This area can be divided with sliding panels, allowing the space to be adapted for various activities. It can serve as a yoga studio or a place for film screenings, enhancing the restaurant's usability.

Sustainable Integration

Materials such as wood are used for flooring and panels, adding warmth to the interior. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is important for the structure of the second floor and supports sustainability goals. The green roof collects rainwater and promotes local plant life. Attention to these details showcases a commitment to sustainability, creating a connection between the restaurant and its natural setting.

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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
competition now

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