5 key facts about this project
The Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant stands in a beautiful location that combines agricultural practices with dining. It aims to engage visitors with the food production process while providing a unique culinary experience. The design focuses on transparency and a strong connection to the natural surroundings, inviting guests to explore the relationship between food and its environment.
The Greenhouse
The greenhouse is a central feature of the design. It has a glass partition that allows customers to see the crops as they grow. This connection between the greenhouse and the restaurant highlights how the food on diners’ plates is cultivated. Inside, the greenhouse is divided into sections for different plants, ensuring each can thrive in its specific conditions. This design approach allows for future expansions, adapting as the needs of the restaurant evolve.
The Restaurant
The restaurant accommodates up to 100 people and is strategically located to offer views of Mývatn Nature Baths and Hverfjall volcano. The glass partition enhances the overall dining experience by showing how the food is sourced directly from the greenhouse. The positioning of the restaurant also considers the possibility of attracting visitors who wish to see the Northern Lights, enhancing the experience further with a stunning natural display.
Interactive Culinary Experience
A notable aspect of the restaurant is the pick-your-own-crops lane, which allows guests to select fresh vegetables and herbs directly from the greenhouse. This interactive feature helps visitors understand local food production and encourages engagement with the ingredients before they are cooked. The rentable kitchen, located next to the restaurant, gives visitors the opportunity to prepare their meals using freshly harvested ingredients, making the culinary experience more hands-on and personal.
Cultural Elements
The terrace includes a reflecting pool that is filled with naturally heated hot springs, paying tribute to Lake Mývatn nearby. This water feature is not only pleasant to look at but also adds a touch of local culture. A stone sculpture, representing the Yule Lads from Icelandic folklore, is placed within the reflecting pool. This artwork can spark conversations among visitors and connect them to the rich traditions of the area.
The design effectively combines practical needs with an appreciation for nature and culture, creating a space where food, environment, and heritage come together harmoniously.