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Perforated Steel Facade Embracing Natural Light in a Sustainable Dining Space

Authors:
Eren Tumer, Ece Sultan Karacik, Cihan Can Turker
Perforated Steel Facade Embracing Natural Light in a Sustainable Dining Space
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A perforated steel facade filters natural light into a warm interior, creating a dining space that integrates with the Icelandic landscape while promoting community interaction and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated steel facade enhances daylighting while maintaining privacy.
02
Glazed surfaces offer panoramic views of the surrounding Icelandic landscape.
03
Raised platform design minimizes disruption to the natural terrain.
04
Interior layout supports multifunctional use for community engagement.
05
Seasonal adaptability ensures comfort throughout varying weather conditions.

The Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant is a well-defined space that connects closely to the unique landscape of Iceland. Located near Mývatn Nature Baths, the restaurant serves not only as a place to eat but also as a community gathering point. The design focuses on creating a close relationship between the building and its natural surroundings, inviting visitors to appreciate the environment around them.

Design Concept

The restaurant features a pure white steel structure that stands out against the rugged terrain. The design incorporates a perforated steel facade, which allows natural light to filter into the interior while improving airflow to keep the space comfortable during cold weather. This attention to material choice reflects a commitment to sustainable practices, reducing energy needs and enhancing the overall experience for visitors.



Spatial Organization

Inside, the layout is carefully arranged to promote movement and interaction. The main entrance is aligned with the existing parking area, making it easy for guests to access the restaurant. A central alley leads visitors through the restaurant, connecting various functional areas such as a multipurpose hall, café, shared office spaces, and dining areas. Greenery along the alley adds a touch of nature, creating a visual link between the inside and outside.



Seasonal Engagement

The design of the restaurant takes into account the different seasons, providing a varied experience throughout the year. In spring, the large glazed surfaces bring the colors of the landscape indoors, allowing diners to appreciate the changing scenery. In winter, the restaurant becomes a warm retreat amidst the cold, offering a cozy environment. This contrast emphasizes the restaurant's role as a welcoming destination at all times of the year.



Visual Connectivity

One of the notable features of the restaurant is its focus on visual connectivity with the surrounding landscape. Large windows frame views of the Icelandic scenery, making it possible for diners to enjoy the natural beauty, including the Northern Lights, from their tables. This connection between the building and the landscape enriches the overall experience, allowing guests to feel more in tune with the environment, even while indoors.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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