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Geothermal Greenhouses Crafted with Larch and Photovoltaic Glass in Iceland's Harsh Landscape

Author:
Quang anh Bui
Geothermal Greenhouses Crafted with Larch and Photovoltaic Glass in Iceland's Harsh Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced larch and integrated with photovoltaic glass, the geothermal greenhouses flourish within Iceland's unique ecosystem, creating a vibrant community hub that emphasizes sustainable agriculture and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes geothermal energy from hot springs in Mývatn for efficient heating of greenhouses.
02
Incorporates photovoltaic glass for energy generation while maximizing natural light.
03
Features multiple hydroponic and aquaponic systems for sustainable plant cultivation.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize wind resistance in harsh climates.
05
Employs locally sourced larch wood to reduce carbon footprint and promote regional materials.
The Green Oasis project located in Mývatn, Iceland, offers a thoughtful exploration of architecture that harmonizes human activity with the natural landscape. This design serves not only as a functional agricultural hub but also as a community space that enriches the surrounding environment. The project represents a commitment to sustainability, intertwining the principles of biophilic design with a robust agricultural initiative.

At its core, the Green Oasis functions as a multifunctional space that encompasses greenhouses, a culinary facility, and educational areas. Each component contributes to its overarching goal of promoting local food production and environmental awareness. The greenhouses are crafted to cultivate a variety of plants, leveraging modern agricultural practices such as hydroponics and aquaponics, which allow for efficient resource management and minimized environmental impact. These spaces are not only focused on agriculture but also act as platforms for community engagement, inviting visitors to learn about sustainable farming techniques and the importance of local sourcing.

The architectural design showcases a seamless integration with its surroundings. It is built using a selection of materials that are both sustainable and suitable for the extreme climate of Mývatn. Glass panels with embedded photovoltaic capabilities ensure that the structure remains energy-efficient by maximizing solar gain while also producing renewable energy. The use of larch wood for flooring brings a natural warmth to the interior spaces, promoting a welcoming atmosphere. Structural elements made from aluminum and steel provide durability and support the expansive glass installations that characterize the project.

Unique aspects of the Green Oasis design include its responsive heating system, which utilizes geothermal energy sourced directly from the Mývatn landscape. This integration of local resource emphasizes the project's alignment with its environment while ensuring planting conditions remain consistent, regardless of external climatic variations. The design also includes water recycling mechanisms, enabling an efficient closed-loop system that enhances both the ecological impact and the operational sustainability of the facility.

Visitors to the Green Oasis can enjoy a curated experience as they navigate through lush spaces that intertwine agriculture with education. The incorporation of a rooftop garden and a botanical garden adds layers of interaction and exploration, allowing guests to engage with a diverse array of flora while emphasizing the importance of a sustainable ecosystem. The careful delineation of spaces promotes community gathering as much as agricultural productivity, reinforcing the project’s objective to serve as a hub for both locals and tourists.

The Green Oasis illustrates a holistic architectural approach that integrates form with function, providing a compelling model for future building designs in challenging environmental conditions. It successfully combines architectural aesthetics with practical sustainability, paving the way for designs that are as beneficial to the community as they are to the planet. To delve deeper into this innovative project, exploring architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will provide a fuller understanding of how architecture can coexist with nature while serving essential community functions.
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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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