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Terraced Restaurant with Glasshouse and Steel Framework in a Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Magdalena Kraska
Terraced Restaurant with Glasshouse and Steel Framework in a Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

With its steel framework and terraced design that blends into the volcanic landscape, the restaurant incorporates agricultural elements to enhance the dining experience while promoting sustainability in the Mývatn region.
5 key facts about this project
01
The restaurant features a terraced layout that enhances views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Agricultural elements are integrated within the design, allowing for onsite cultivation of vegetables.
03
A steel framework supports the glasshouse-style structure, promoting natural light throughout the interior.
04
The triangulated roof design facilitates the installation of solar panels for energy efficiency.
05
Dark sandstone flooring reflects the local volcanic rock, creating a unified aesthetic.

The Hverfjall Volcano and Mývatn Nature Baths are located in the scenic Mývatn region of Iceland, where the design harmoniously fits into the stunning volcanic landscape. This space combines leisure and essential services, creating a unique experience for visitors. The concept revolves around the natural topography, and the overall design reflects the shapes and forms found in the surrounding environment.

ARCHITECTURAL FORM AND LAYOUT

The building has a dynamic shape that echoes the hills nearby. The roof's contours mimic the undulations of the terrain, allowing it to blend into the landscape. The layout of the restaurant supports accessibility, featuring a single-level design that promotes easy movement. This streamlined arrangement enriches the visual connection between the spaces and the natural surroundings.



AGRICULTURAL COMPONENT

An interesting feature of the design is the incorporation of agricultural elements within the restaurant. Growing spaces for tomatoes and cucumbers are integrated into the design, both inside and along the edges of the glasshouse. This aspect fosters a connection between visitors and local food production, highlighting sustainability and environmental care.



MATERIALS USED

The structure employs a steel framework, which supports the glasshouse-like appearance and enhances transparency. This choice of material allows the building to adapt to the volcanic context while accommodating the unique geological features of the site. Inside, dark-colored sandstone flooring reflects the tones of surrounding volcanic rocks, creating a unified and grounding atmosphere.



SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS

The design also features a triangulated roof, providing a platform for solar panels. This aspect underscores a commitment to environmental sustainability, minimizing the building's carbon footprint. The roof shape not only serves a practical function but also creates an inviting play of light and shadow within the interior, enhancing the dining experience and encouraging interaction with the landscape.

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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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