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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

Project in-detail

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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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
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