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Grow Lights Illuminating a Modular Greenhouse Amid Iceland's Dynamic Light Conditions

Author:
Aisa Osako
Grow Lights Illuminating a Modular Greenhouse Amid Iceland's Dynamic Light Conditions
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Artificial pink grow lights illuminate a modular greenhouse that integrates hydroponic farming with a communal dining space in Iceland's unique light conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes artificial pink grow lights to enhance plant growth during prolonged winter darkness.
02
Integrates hydroponic farming within a communal dining setup to promote sustainability.
03
Features a translucent barrel arch ceiling to maximize natural light intake.
04
Designed for modular expansion to adapt to future agricultural needs.
05
Strategically located at Myvatn Lake, responding to its unique light phenomena.

Located near Myvatn Lake in Iceland, the greenhouse combines agricultural functions with a space for communal dining. The design is rooted in the themes of light and darkness, reflecting the unique natural phenomena of the region. It responds to the extremes of the landscape, where rich vegetation grows alongside stark volcanic sand. The goal is to create a place that offers warmth and light during the long winter nights while celebrating the fleeting beauty of the Midnight Sun in the summer.

Conceptual Framework

The design observes the seasonal shifts in daylight, especially during the summer solstice when sunlight barely dips below the horizon. This creates vibrant colors in the sky that play a crucial role in the overall atmosphere of the region. During the darker months, the need for additional lighting becomes essential. The incorporation of warm pink grow lights not only supports plant growth but also integrates a visual aspect that highlights the importance of light in the greenhouse environment.

Spatial Organization

Hydroponic farming is a central element of the design, allowing for the production of food in an efficient and sustainable manner. The layout includes a dining area surrounded by lush greenery, fostering an immersive experience for visitors. This encourages engagement with both the plants and their fellow diners, creating a sense of community while connecting them to the natural world.

Architectural Elements

The use of a translucent barrel arch ceiling greatly enhances the space. It maximizes the intake of natural light while maintaining an open feel. This structural choice helps maintain a clean appearance and invites visitors to view the thriving plants above and around them. The design also offers modularity, enabling future adaptations and expansions based on changing needs.

The connection between indoor and outdoor spaces is carefully crafted, allowing visitors to feel at one with the environment. The framework maintains transparency, inviting sunlight and the vibrant colors of the plants inside. As guests dine, they are surrounded by both greenery and soft light, creating a pleasant and visually appealing atmosphere that enhances their experience in the greenhouse.

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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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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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