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Geodesic Glass Dome Overlooking Hydroponic Greenhouse Dining Environment

Authors:
Disha Bhatia, Prabhjot Rajpal, Shreya Sethi, Vinayak Verma
Geodesic Glass Dome Overlooking Hydroponic Greenhouse Dining Environment
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A geodesic glass dome crowns a hydroponic greenhouse, providing an innovative dining space that integrates local geothermal energy and natural landscapes for sustainable culinary experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geothermal energy sources from local hot springs provide heating for the restaurant.
02
A geodesic glass dome offers panoramic views while enhancing natural light in the bar area.
03
The design incorporates hydroponic farming to supply fresh produce directly from the greenhouse.
04
Multilevel seating arrangements allow varied dining experiences and optimal landscape views.
05
Strategic skylights support natural illumination throughout the exhibition and dining spaces.

Heimaræktað is set in a landscape enriched by natural beauty, providing a space that functions both as a restaurant and a greenhouse. The design combines elements of modern architecture with local geographical features. The concept revolves around basic geometric shapes, creating a balance between function and a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Architectural Layout

The starting point is a foundational block shape. This form is essential for housing the kitchen and storage areas, which are critical to the restaurant's operation. The building is wrapped in a glass and steel profile. This not only gives it a modern look but also ensures it has a strong structure.

User Experience

Various design elements enhance how people interact with the space. Extrusions for entrances and corner windows allow natural light to flood in and provide views of the surroundings. Skylights are placed thoughtfully in the roof to create a bright environment within the exhibition areas. This design encourages movement from a more defined space towards a larger greenhouse area, making the environment feel open and inviting.

Seating Arrangements

A diverse seating arrangement is implemented, allowing visitors to choose from multiple levels. This setup adds variety to the dining experience and provides different vantage points. The bar, located on the mezzanine floor beneath a glass dome, creates an intimate setting for guests. Here, people can enjoy drinks while taking in the views of the northern lights.

Sustainability and Materials

Sustainability plays an important role in the project. Geothermal energy is sourced from local hot springs and Mývatn lake, which helps heat the restaurant and maintain a comfortable atmosphere. Hydroponic farming is another significant element, allowing various crops to be grown without soil within the greenhouse. Materials used include glass and steel for strength and durability, while wooden panels add warmth. Concrete serves as the foundation, ensuring stability and effective load-bearing.

The combination of these design features creates an engaging environment. Heimaræktað embodies a thoughtful approach to connecting architecture with the surrounding natural landscape, providing a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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