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Thermal Efficiency Through ETFE Membrane and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Sustainable Dining Environment

Authors:
Vasilis Marcou ilchuk, Nichola Czyz
Thermal Efficiency Through ETFE Membrane and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Sustainable Dining Environment

Project in-detail

Utilizing a combination of ETFE membranes and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a transparent dining experience that seamlessly integrates food production and sustainability within a greenhouse environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with an adaptable roof configuration for optimal light absorption throughout the year.
02
Incorporates a green roof system that captures rainwater for irrigation and supports local biodiversity.
03
Features visible hydroponic production areas, enhancing transparency in the food sourcing process.
04
Utilizes sustainable cross-laminated timber for structure, minimizing environmental impact.
05
Includes educational zones for hands-on workshops related to sustainable gardening practices.

The project presents an architectural design for a greenhouse restaurant situated in an environmentally sensitive landscape, characterized by its integration of agricultural practices and dining experiences. This architecture serves a dual function as both a culinary establishment and an educational facility, promoting sustainable living and community engagement. The design emphasizes transparency in food production, aligning dining with agriculture, while facilitating education around ecological practices and sustainable food systems.

Innovative Design Approach to Sustainability
A defining characteristic of this project is its emphasis on sustainable practices across all aspects of construction and operation. The structure utilizes tempered insulated glass panels to maximize natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Cross-laminated timber is incorporated as a primary structural element, offering strength while minimizing carbon footprint. The use of an ETFE membrane enhances the greenhouse's thermal performance, ensuring an efficient growing environment.

The architectural design includes features such as a green roof system, which captures rainwater and reduces runoff, while providing insulation and a habitat for local biodiversity. Additionally, the layout encourages flexibility, allowing the interior space to be reconfigured for various activities, including dining and educational workshops.

Functional Zones Enhancing the User Experience
The organization of the interior space is central to its functionality. The project is divided into distinct zones, each designed for specific purposes. The dining area is characterized by communal tables, fostering interaction among visitors and enhancing the sense of community. Adjacent, educational zones are dedicated to workshops and demonstrations, allowing guests to engage with sustainable practices hands-on.

Production areas within the greenhouse are designed to be visible to diners, reinforcing transparency in food sourcing. This setup facilitates an understanding of the plant growth cycle and emphasizes the importance of local sourcing in the culinary experience.

Overall, this greenhouse restaurant project stands out for its commitment to sustainability through innovative architectural design. It not only serves as a place for nourishment but also as a model for future projects aiming to integrate food production with dining. To gain a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, exploring the project presentation is recommended for further insights.

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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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