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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

Project in-detail

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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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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