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Culinary Hub Embracing Mycelium and Geothermal Energy

Author:
Ryall Burden
Culinary Hub Embracing Mycelium and Geothermal Energy
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Utilizing geothermal energy and mycelium technology, the design integrates a culinary hub with an edible garden to foster sustainable food practices and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes geothermal energy for cooking and heating.
02
Incorporates an edible water garden for natural purification.
03
Employs mycelium technology for waste recycling and mushroom production.
04
Features aquaponics for integrated crop and fish farming.
05
Engages community through hands-on harvesting experiences.

Hringrásir is a project that focuses on cycles and seasons, connecting deeply with its natural surroundings. Located in an area with geothermal resources, the design serves as a space for food preparation and community interaction. It emphasizes the relationship between human activities and the environment, aiming to enhance understanding of ecological systems.

Hot Spring Oven
At the heart of the design is the Hot Spring Oven, which harnesses geothermal energy to cook various foods, including breads, skyr, meats, and fish. This cooking facility is not just a practical feature; it also draws visitors by showcasing how local resources can be used in a sustainable way. The method of slow cooking highlights a commitment to both quality and environmental care.

Water Management System
The project includes an efficient water management system. Hot spring water is used to warm farming areas and flows through the internal courtyard before returning to the edible water garden. This cycle supports sustainability by controlling temperature and creating a visual experience. In the water garden, plants help purify the water by filtering out salts and minerals, contributing to a balanced ecosystem that benefits both aquatic life and human users.

Waste Management and Mycelium Technology
Another innovative aspect is the waste management system that processes kitchen waste using funispor. This mycelium breaks down organic materials and produces mushrooms. Such a system reduces waste and replenishes nutrients, reinforcing a sustainable approach to food production. This practical application of mycelium technology emphasizes the importance of resource efficiency in achieving sustainability.

Aquaponics and Community Engagement
Incorporating aquaponics, planters use fish-enriched water to grow crops. These plants begin their growth phase in nursery greenhouses and are then transported to the main building for harvest. This setup encourages involvement from both kitchen staff and visitors in the food production process. Such interaction promotes learning about sustainable practices and the connections between farming and ecology.

As water flows through the garden, surrounded by vibrant plant life and fish, the design illustrates a strong bond with the natural environment. This connection creates a rich sensory experience for visitors and an opportunity to engage with ecological systems.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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