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Geothermal Greenhouse with Glass Facade and Sustainable Practices for Community Engagement

Authors:
Zsófia Nagy, Benedek Merza, Dorisz Fenyvesi
Geothermal Greenhouse with Glass Facade and Sustainable Practices for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

A geothermal greenhouse with a glass facade integrates reinforced concrete and native vegetation to create a multifunctional space that fosters community engagement and promotes local agriculture.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates geothermal heating and cooling systems tailored for plant growth.
02
Utilizes a glass facade to maximize natural light while ensuring thermal efficiency.
03
Designed to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding hillside topography.
04
Features dedicated educational spaces for community horticultural programs.
05
Emphasizes native vegetation to enhance local biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
The architectural project under analysis is located in Iceland and utilizes greenhouse design to create a multifunctional space that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. The primary aim of the project is to integrate horticulture with community engagement through an innovative architectural form. It serves both agricultural functions and public recreational areas, allowing it to attract visitors and promote local food production simultaneously. The site selection leverages the existing hillside topography, enhancing visual connections to the landscape.

This project features a core greenhouse structure comprising approximately 5000 m² that is divided into smaller segments tailored to different horticultural needs. Each greenhouse structure, measuring about 6m by 6m, stands at a height of 4.5m. The design facilitates natural light access for optimum plant growth while ensuring human comfort. The layout promotes a fluid movement pattern for users, with spaces designated for education, dining, and agricultural service areas.

Integration of Landscape and Sustainability

One distinguishing aspect of this project is its integration with the surrounding landscape. By minimizing land disturbance and preserving natural topographical features, the design promotes ecological balance. The project incorporates geothermal heating and cooling systems, which are essential to maintaining optimal conditions within the greenhouse while reducing energy consumption. The use of native vegetation not only enhances biodiversity but also reinforces the project's commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility.

The arrangement of public and private zones within the project is carefully crafted to foster community interaction without disrupting agricultural operations. Public areas are designed for dining and community engagement, while private service spaces ensure a streamlined workflow for agricultural personnel. This separation of functions supports the operational efficiency of the project while creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Architectural Materiality and Functionality

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in the project’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Glass is predominantly used to cover the greenhouse structures, allowing maximum light penetration essential for plant growth. Reinforced concrete provides structural stability, while steel is incorporated to support the expansive glass surfaces. These materials collectively enhance the durability of the design, ensuring longevity and resilience in the local climate.

The project's culinary component adds depth to its architectural narrative, with a restaurant positioned at a vantage point to give visitors scenic views of the natural landscape. This multifunctional aspect encourages community engagement and education around agricultural practices while promoting local food sourcing.

To explore further details about the architectural plans, sections, and overall design concepts, readers are encouraged to review the complete project presentation. This will provide deeper insights into the design strategies, innovative ideas, and technical specifications that define this unique architectural endeavor.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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