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Natural Light-Filled Greenhouses Constructed with Polycarbonate Panels and Timber Framework for Community Agriculture

Author:
Malin Persson
Natural Light-Filled Greenhouses Constructed with Polycarbonate Panels and Timber Framework for Community Agriculture

Project in-detail

Constructed with transparent polycarbonate panels and warm timber frameworks, the greenhouses create an inviting environment for community agriculture while seamlessly integrating with the surrounding volcanic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design utilizes transparent polycarbonate panels for optimal light diffusion and energy efficiency.
02
Stepped flooring follows the natural topography, enhancing accessibility and fluid movement between spaces.
03
Interconnected greenhouses facilitate diverse agricultural activities and encourage community engagement.
04
Timber construction methods prioritize sustainability, using locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.
05
The project promotes agricultural education by incorporating dedicated spaces for workshops and community gatherings.
The "Green Fingers" project is an architectural initiative that integrates the principles of sustainability, community engagement, and innovative horticulture within its design framework. Situated in a challenging geographical context characterized by rugged terrain and volcanic formations, this project aims to redefine agricultural practices while fostering a deep connection with the landscape. By consisting of three interconnected greenhouses, the design not only fulfills the functional requirements of modern horticulture but also serves as a catalyst for community interaction and education.

At the heart of the "Green Fingers" project is its conceptual inspiration drawn from the natural growth patterns found in agriculture. The design metaphorically represents ‘green fingers’ reaching out across the land, which reflects a commitment to harnessing and enhancing the natural potential of the surrounding environment. This essence extends to the layout and orientation of the greenhouses, which are strategically positioned to optimize natural light intake and facilitate appropriate climate control while preserving the integrity of the local topography.

The primary function of the project is to support a variety of horticultural activities while simultaneously providing spaces for communal gathering and education. Each greenhouse serves distinct agricultural purposes, with thoughtfully designed multipurpose areas that cater to educational programs, workshops, and casual interactions amongst visitors. This not only encourages the sharing of knowledge but also creates a vibrant communal atmosphere where people can engage directly with gardening practices.

The unique design approaches implemented in the "Green Fingers" project stand out in several ways. First, the use of stepped flooring throughout the greenhouses allows for an organic integration with the slope of the landscape, promoting accessibility while enhancing the overall aesthetic. This dynamic floor plan leads visitors through the spaces in a manner that feels instinctive, allowing for a seamless flow between agricultural plots and communal areas.

Material selection plays a pivotal role in achieving the project’s sustainable ethos. Timber is employed across structural components not only for its aesthetic warmth but also for its reduced environmental impact, echoing local construction traditions. Alongside timber, polycarbonate panels serve as an essential material for the greenhouse walls and roofs, facilitating natural light penetration while ensuring thermal efficiency and resilience against the elements. The use of concrete in flooring systems provides a stable foundation, enhancing durability while maintaining a clean, organized environment for agricultural activities.

The landscape surrounding the "Green Fingers" project has been designed to foster a harmonious relationship between built structures and natural elements. Ample outdoor areas are designated for planting, which invites community members to engage with the land actively. This layout encourages exploration and interaction, blending the spaces for cultivation and recreation while promoting a sense of ownership and stewardship among visitors.

Moreover, the architectural design of the project emphasizes transparency and connection to nature. Large expanses of glazing and open layouts facilitate visibility throughout the space, allowing visitors to observe the interplay between indoor and outdoor environments. This transparency not only enhances user experience but also reinforces the project's commitment to ecologically sensitive practices.

In summary, the "Green Fingers" project embodies an architectural philosophy that prioritizes sustainability, functionality, and community engagement. By thoughtfully integrating design elements that reflect the surrounding environment and the needs of its users, the project serves as a model for future developments in agricultural architecture. For those seeking to delve deeper into the specifics of the design, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, exploring the project presentation reveals a wealth of insights that further illustrate its innovative approach.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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