The "MOULTING MELTING" project is located in the rugged landscape of Iceland, integrating its design with the surrounding natural elements. Functioning as both a greenhouse and a restaurant, the design aims to create a space that symbolizes safety and nourishment for both plants and people. It serves as a refuge from the stark environment, inviting visitors to engage and explore.

Conceptual Framework

At its core, the design contrasts human scale with the vastness of the Icelandic wilderness. It features two intersecting smaller buildings, creating an interesting spatial experience. This intersection evokes the image of an insect during its moulting process, signifying regeneration and change. Such a metaphor reflects the interconnectedness of life and highlights the cycle of nature.

Materiality and Aesthetics

The project uses hard, cold, and transparent materials that define its identity. These choices enhance the overall structure and contribute to the greenhouse feeling like a vessel, akin to a Noah's Ark. This imagery emphasizes the exchange of energy and life within the space, reminding visitors of the environment's nurturing qualities.

Spatial Experience

The size of the building enhances its role as a shelter, resembling an ocean-going vessel resting on land. Visitors approaching the structure experience a sense of curiosity that draws them in. Inside, light plays a significant role, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The design encourages interaction among people, fostering a sense of community in this unique setting.

The design culminates in a blend of natural and built elements, resulting in a space where visitors can find comfort and connection amid the dramatic Icelandic landscape.