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Geothermal Greenhouse With Roman Concrete and Hverfjall Views

Author:
Gil Honoré
Geothermal Greenhouse With Roman Concrete and Hverfjall Views

Project in-detail

Constructed with ancient Roman concrete and powered by a geothermal heating system, the design offers expansive views of Hverfjall volcano while serving multiple community functions, including a greenhouse and restaurant.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with ancient Roman concrete for enhanced durability.
02
Integrates a geothermal heating system to maintain optimal greenhouse conditions.
03
Positioned to offer unobstructed views of the Hverfjall volcano.
04
Includes a nursery for aromatic plants, promoting local biodiversity.
05
Features a multifunctional design that supports community activities and events.

The design presents a thoughtful combination of spaces, situated in a landscape that highlights community interaction and sustainability. Covering an area of 2020 m², the layout includes a kitchen, bar, restaurant, meeting area, polyvalent space, entrance hall, greenhouse, and nursery for aromatic plants. This variety of functions illustrates the intent to create a dynamic environment that encourages engagement between users and their surroundings.

Architectural Composition

The building's layout is planned to promote ease of access and visual connections among the different areas. The ground floor features a polyvalent space for yoga, paired with a restaurant and a multipurpose hall that includes cinema functionality. This configuration allows for smooth transitions between different activities, encouraging community involvement and interaction.

Materiality and Structural Elements

Walls constructed from ancient concrete, known as Roman concrete, provide the building with strength and durability. Unlike modern concrete, this unreinforced material contributes significantly to the solid structure. Inside, the use of insulated wooden framework enhances energy efficiency, while the aluminum roof adds protection and a modern touch to the aesthetic.

Technical Integration

Various technical systems are included to enhance functionality and energy conservation. A geothermal heating system maintains a consistent temperature of 24°C in the greenhouse. It works alongside a climate-control computer system that manages temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide levels, and lighting. Standard shading devices and ventilation openings improve the indoor conditions, and a rainwater collection system with a 600 m³ capacity reflects a strong commitment to sustainability.

Visual Engagement with the Landscape

The restaurant and multipurpose hall are strategically positioned to provide views of Hverfjall volcano and the interior of the greenhouse, establishing a connection between the building and its natural environment. The entrance is designed to blend into the landscape, ensuring accessibility and anchoring the structure in its geographical context.

A lighting control system automatically adjusts to sunlight levels, which helps reduce energy usage and improve the experience for occupants.

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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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