The Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant is located near the Mivatn lakes, designed to blend with the surrounding landscape. The structure focuses on providing a self-sufficient space that engages with its natural environment. The concept emphasizes reflective qualities found in the nearby lakes, as both the glass greenhouse and the restaurant's unique glazing foster a visual relationship with the site.

Design Layout

The building is organized into two distinct floors, each serving specific functions. The first floor includes a kitchen, several storage areas, cold storage rooms, and utility spaces. This arrangement supports smooth operations and encourages staff interaction with the greenhouse area, which is key to the dining experience. A central hall connects all these functional spaces to areas meant for visitors, ensuring easy navigation throughout.

User Experience

On the second floor, the restaurant area is designed to take advantage of views of the beautiful landscape. Guests can enjoy their meals in a welcoming atmosphere that brings the outdoors in. The layout also includes administrative offices and restrooms for convenience, contributing to a thoughtful overall design. A balcony invites diners to step outside and appreciate the natural surroundings, reinforcing the connection with the environment.

Material Considerations

Materials used in the design play an important role in its character. Various types of wood are incorporated through beams and boards, providing both warmth and strength. Concrete and glass enhance transparency, allowing ample natural light into the interior. Plaster with a long drying time is chosen for its durability and pleasing finish, while paint made from natural oils offers organic textures and colors. The roof utilizes soft bitumen for its practical benefits, particularly its resistance to different weather conditions.

Lighting Solutions

The design includes LED phyto-luminaires in the greenhouse, showcasing a focus on sustainability. These light sources can be adjusted to meet different illumination needs, supporting plant growth while using energy efficiently. The overall design encourages a connection between the indoor environment and the landscape outside.

Large glass walls in the greenhouse create a unique dining experience, allowing diners to feel the changing light and seasonal shifts of the Icelandic landscape, strengthening the bond between the structure and its natural setting.