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Hydroponic Greenhouse Restaurant with Glazed Roofs and Steel Framework Integrated into Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Darran Brennan
Hydroponic Greenhouse Restaurant with Glazed Roofs and Steel Framework Integrated into Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Incorporating hydroponics and extensive glazing within a steel framework, the restaurant seamlessly melds agricultural practices with dining experiences against the backdrop of Iceland's volcanic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates hydroponic farming systems to directly supply the restaurant's kitchen.
02
Utilizes extensive glazing for natural light and panoramic views of the volcanic landscape.
03
Features a steel framework that supports a unique bent A-frame roof design.
04
Integrates agricultural practices into the dining experience through on-site cultivation.
05
Constructed with a combination of local materials to enhance sustainability and aesthetics.

The Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant is an architectural project located near the Myvatn baths and Hverfjall volcano in Iceland. It embodies a harmony between functionality and the surrounding landscape. This design integrates the culinary experiences of the restaurant with agricultural production, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and local sourcing of food. By focusing on the local environment, this project emphasizes the relationship between architecture and nature, creating spaces that encourage interaction and engagement with the natural setting.

The restaurant consists of two primary blocks. Block A accommodates the hospitality functions, including the dining area, kitchen, and food processing facilities. Block B provides accommodation and multifunctional spaces to support various activities. This layout facilitates efficient circulation while reducing conflict between different uses. The design takes cues from the surrounding topography, with roofs that mimic volcanic forms, fostering a strong connection to the landscape.

Sustainability plays a central role in the design approach. The building features extensive glazing, allowing abundant natural light and passive solar gain while maximizing views of the volcano. The use of structural steel supports wide spans necessary for the open layout, while wood is utilized for internal finishes to introduce warmth and a connection to agricultural themes. Concrete elements provide durability and add thermal mass to the structure.

The unique integration of food production into the architectural design sets this project apart from traditional restaurant concepts. Hydroponic systems are incorporated to allow for year-round cultivation, making the restaurant a proactive participant in the local food system. This innovative approach promotes farm-to-table experiences, aligning dining options directly with the restaurant's growing methods.

The multipurpose hall within the restaurant serves various functions, including educational sessions on sustainability and adaptable spaces for events and classes. This versatility enhances the project’s capability to respond to varying demands from visitors and the community. The overall aesthetic, characterized by abundant natural light and panoramic views, enhances the dining experience, reinforcing the connection between guests and the landscape.

The Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant represents a methodological approach to contemporary architecture, emphasizing sustainability and integration with the environment. To delve deeper into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas underlying this project, readers are encouraged to explore its presentation for comprehensive insights into its innovative features and design strategies.

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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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