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Rammed Earth Walls and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Climate-Responsive Community Greenhouse

Authors:
Martin Avila, Mariana Bernal, Valeria Moreno
Rammed Earth Walls and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Climate-Responsive Community Greenhouse

Project in-detail

Constructed with rammed earth walls and cross-laminated timber, the community greenhouse seamlessly integrates sustainable materials to create a climate-responsive space for cultivation and education in Northeast Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
The greenhouse employs rammed earth walls to enhance thermal mass and energy efficiency.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while maintaining a warm aesthetic.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes sunlight exposure and natural ventilation throughout the year.
04
The building integrates native vegetation in its green roof system, promoting local biodiversity.
05
Community spaces are designed to foster social interaction and educational opportunities around sustainable practices.
The Northeast Greenhouse project is an architectural endeavor situated in the dramatic landscape of Northeast Iceland. This design aligns with the region's unique climatic conditions and cultural heritage, embodying a vision that seeks to create a sustainable and functional space. The project serves multiple purposes, including cultivation, community engagement, and education about local agriculture and ecology. Its conception reflects an intention to integrate with nature, allowing occupants to experience the environment while providing essential facilities for growing and studying various plant species.

At the heart of the design is a multifunctional greenhouse, designed not only as a space for agricultural activities but also as a community hub where individuals can gather, learn, and support local produce. The building's orientation and layout maximize sunlight exposure, crucial for plant growth in the often overcast Icelandic climate. The arrangement of spaces facilitates smooth flows between different functions, minimizing barriers and encouraging interaction among visitors.

Key components of the Northeast Greenhouse include an entry square that serves as a welcoming transition into the facility, offering sheltered space that protects against the region's winds. Adjacent to this, a central atrium acts as a multifunctional gathering space, fostering community interaction and connection. Complementing these areas is a restaurant designed to showcase local ingredients, allowing diners to connect with the region's culinary offerings while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The project’s materiality is a critical aspect that influences both its aesthetic character and functional performance. The use of cross-laminated timber is notable for the roof structure, which not only provides structural integrity but also brings warmth and natural beauty to the interior. The rammed earth walls serve a dual purpose, providing both thermal mass and a tangible connection to the surrounding geology. Translucent roofing materials filter natural light into the greenhouse and atrium, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere that supports both plant growth and human activity.

The design also incorporates vegetated roof systems, enhancing insulation and reducing water runoff while promoting biodiversity. This bioclimatic approach ensures that the design responds effectively to environmental conditions, leveraging natural elements to create an energy-efficient building. By drawing inspiration from traditional Icelandic architecture, particularly the local turf houses, the project respects and references its cultural context. This connection is apparent in the soft, sloping rooflines that mimic the natural topography and provide additional protection against the elements.

Overall, the Northeast Greenhouse reflects a thoughtful integration of architecture and environment, addressing functional requirements while also enhancing community interaction. Its design encourages a sustainable lifestyle by showcasing the relationship between the built environment and natural processes. For a comprehensive understanding of the project's architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are invited to explore the presented materials to gain deeper insights into its significance and implementation. This project serves as a tangible representation of contemporary architectural practices that prioritize ecological sensitivity and community engagement, standing as a model for future designs in similar contexts.
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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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