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Experiencing Nature Through Ribbon Windows and Interactive Greenhouse Spaces

Authors:
Ewa Serafińska, Hanna Pacyno
Experiencing Nature Through Ribbon Windows and Interactive Greenhouse Spaces

Project in-detail

Generous ribbon windows frame the stunning Icelandic landscape while an interactive greenhouse invites guests to engage in a farm-to-table dining experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Generous ribbon windows provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
02
The design includes two distinct growing zones for food production and attractions.
03
Guests can select fresh ingredients directly from the greenhouse for meals.
04
The overall form of the complex is organic, promoting natural interaction.
05
An upper level enhances accessibility and engagement within the space.

The design focuses on establishing a strong connection with the natural landscape of Iceland. With a function that promotes interaction and engagement, it utilizes large ribbon windows that offer views of significant features in the area, including Hverfjall and the nature baths at Mývatn. The overall concept encourages occupants to experience nature while also providing spaces for relaxation and food production.

Window Design and Light Integration

Generous ribbon windows are a key element in the design, allowing for expansive views of the landscape. These windows transition from vertical to horizontal, bringing in ample natural light throughout the day. As sunlight moves, it casts changing patterns across the interior, creating a lively atmosphere. This feature enhances the experience of living in the space, especially when it comes to observing the Northern Lights.

Growing Zones

Two distinct growing zones exist within the design, each serving a specific role. The first zone is dedicated to food production and is strategically positioned to allow for future growth. This layout reflects a focus on sustainability and self-sufficiency, ensuring that local resources can be fully utilized. The second zone is designed to enhance attractions for guests, creating a closer relationship between visitors and the natural world.

Functional Layout

The building has an organic form with interconnected spaces that encourage interaction among occupants. The arrangement places the restaurant right next to the greenhouse, allowing guests to observe plant growth and choose fresh ingredients for their meals. This setup supports a farm-to-table philosophy, making the dining experience more engaging.

Guest Experience

An upper level provides additional areas for guests to explore, enhancing the overall functionality of the design. This careful organization of spaces ensures that everyone can connect meaningfully with their surroundings. Features like the large windows and proximity of the greenhouse create an environment where architecture and nature influence one another, highlighting the essence of the Icelandic landscape.

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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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