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Iron Beams and Teflon Shading in a Community Greenhouse Complex

Author:
Danilo Di lorenzo di michele
Iron Beams and Teflon Shading in a Community Greenhouse Complex

Project in-detail

The integration of iron beams and Teflon shading creates a distinctive greenhouse complex that facilitates community engagement and sustainable practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
The main roof incorporates a unique iron-glass covering with photovoltaic panels for energy efficiency.
02
The greenhouse features a specialized Teflon shading system to regulate temperature while maximizing light.
03
Northern Lights Cabins are designed with glass walls and ceilings, enhancing the connection to nature.
04
The restaurant integrates a direct service corridor to the kitchen, promoting operational efficiency.
05
A geothermal power plant supports the greenhouse, minimizing environmental impact through sustainable energy use.

The design emerges as a well-planned response to the need for functionality and environmental connection. It is situated in a location that brings together built forms and natural landscapes, catering to various user groups, including visitors and staff. The overall concept emphasizes accessibility and interaction, creating a flow through distinct spaces while maximizing natural light and the beauty of the surroundings.

Elevation and Structure

The design includes a series of well-defined elevations: South, North, East, and West. Each elevation offers unique views and contributes to the overall experience. The main roof utilizes an iron-glass combination with photovoltaic panels and solar shading, showcasing a focus on sustainable energy practices. The greenhouse structure features a framework of iron beams wrapped in glass, allowing for optimal light while supporting the growth of plants.

Functional Areas

Key to the design is a multipurpose room located at the highest level, allowing for a range of activities such as wellness programs and exhibitions. Nearby is the Northern Lights Cabins System, positioned on the east side. These cabins feature glass walls and ceilings, creating a strong link to the natural environment. This design choice enhances users' experiences by bringing in daylight and open views of the surroundings.

Ground and Service Spaces

The restaurant on the first level is designed to provide an inviting dining experience. It features a well-thought-out service network that connects the kitchen, bar, and dining areas. The ground floor acts as the heart of the operation, housing the greenhouses and service areas that accommodate both staff and visitors. This arrangement supports efficiency while creating an inviting atmosphere for all.

Sustainability Features

The geothermal power plant is an important aspect of the design, supporting the greenhouse's operational needs. This feature, along with the photovoltaic energy systems, highlights a commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the inclusion of a thematic green park and a plant nursery enriches the environment, offering spaces for relaxation and interaction with nature.

The design concludes with carefully planned interiors that encourage community engagement. The arrangement of spaces allows for meaningful connections between people and nature, creating a harmonious environment that fosters a sense of belonging.

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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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