Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Greenhouse Dining Integrating Thermal Properties with Scenic Views

Author:
Anna Bowyer
Greenhouse Dining Integrating Thermal Properties with Scenic Views

Project in-detail

Set against the backdrop of Iceland's glacial landscape, the integration of a greenhouse for fresh produce within a thermal-efficient structure creates a unique dining experience that emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Greenhouse integrated directly into the dining area for fresh produce.
02
Spiral staircase serves as both a functional and experiential element.
03
Design leverages natural thermal properties for energy efficiency.
04
Views of the Mývatn nature baths enhance the dining experience.
05
Multi-level layout fosters interaction between guests and chefs.

Þrisvar is located in Iceland, a land known for its dramatic glacial landscapes. The design seeks to create a strong connection between nature and human experience, focusing on sustainability and enhancing how people enjoy food. The concept embraces the unique characteristics of the area, drawing inspiration from the surrounding glaciers and their influence on the ecosystem.

LAYOUT AND FUNCTION

The layout is carefully divided into different levels to serve specific functions. The ground floor features a multipurpose hall alongside a viewing platform, allowing visitors to take in the beautiful scenery. The arrangement promotes both leisure and observation, creating a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor areas. Upon entrance, expansive views, including those of the local Mývatn nature baths, greet guests, enriching their arrival experience.

DINING EXPERIENCE

On the lower ground level, attention shifts to the dining experience. This area includes a spacious dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and an integrated greenhouse garden. The greenhouse provides fresh produce directly to chefs, allowing guests to witness where their food comes from. This farm-to-table approach emphasizes local sourcing, making the meal not just about taste but also about the connection to the landscape.

SPIRAL STAIRCASE

A notable feature of the design is the spiral staircase connecting different levels. More than just a way to move between floors, the staircase acts as a transition from the outside world to a cozy dining space. This design invites guests to engage with the surrounding nature as they descend, enhancing their overall experience.

MATERIALITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL STRATEGIES

Although specific materials are not mentioned, the design relies on natural thermal properties and sustainability. The approach suggests a focus on using materials that will fit well with the local environment. Considering climate conditions plays a vital role in the greenhouse's success, helping to provide the necessary resources for culinary offerings.

The connection between the kitchen and dining areas becomes clear through the visual presence of the greenhouse, where fresh produce grows under natural light, blending the concepts of nature and food seamlessly together.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy