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Thermal Insulation and Hydroponic Greenhouses in Volcanic Concrete Café Design

Author:
Nathan Chiu
Thermal Insulation and Hydroponic Greenhouses in Volcanic Concrete Café Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating hydroponic greenhouses and volcanic concrete, this café seamlessly blends thermal efficiency with local food production, providing a sustainable dining experience in Iceland's unique landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates hydroponic greenhouses for onsite food production.
02
Utilizes volcanic concrete that reflects the local landscape.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light.
04
Employs double-pane glass for enhanced thermal efficiency.
05
Incorporates social spaces designed for community engagement.
The Geothermal Comfort Café is an architectural project located near Myvatn Nature Baths in Iceland. The design integrates contemporary aesthetics with ecological sustainability, making it a notable example of modern architectural practice. This café serves a dual purpose: it functions as a dining destination while also promoting dialogue about sustainability and local food sourcing. The layout encourages social interaction and provides educational opportunities about environmental stewardship through its operational practices.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The primary layout of the café includes distinct areas designed for specific functions. Upon entering, visitors find a welcoming lounge area with a fireplace, fostering a sense of comfort. This space transitions into a multipurpose hall that accommodates casual gatherings, events, and social activities. The dining areas are designed to offer flexibility, enabling the configuration of seating for families and larger groups.

Key to the café's functional layout is the inclusion of hydroponic greenhouses that support onsite food production. These spaces not only provide fresh ingredients for the menu but also serve an educational role, informing visitors about sustainable agricultural techniques and the benefits of local sourcing. The outdoor dining facilities offer visitors unparalleled views of the Myvatn landscape, enhancing the overall experience.

Sustainable Design Approaches

The design emphasizes sustainability through material selection and energy efficiency. Concrete, both light and dark, is used to reflect the surrounding volcanic terrain while maintaining structural integrity. Timber elements throughout the space introduce warmth and connection to nature. The structural framing utilizes aluminum and steel sourced locally, reinforcing the project’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

A significant feature of the Geothermal Comfort Café is the extensive use of double-pane glass, which maximizes natural light while providing insulation against Iceland's cold climate. Additionally, the integration of photovoltaic panels underscores the project’s focus on renewable energy, allowing the café to meet its energy demands sustainably.

Visitor engagement with the surrounding environment is another aspect that sets this project apart. The open designs and skylights invite the beauty of the Northern Lights into the space, creating a unique atmosphere that connects the built environment with nature.

The Geothermal Comfort Café stands as a significant contribution to architectural design, merging functionality with ecological responsibility. To explore further details about architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs associated with this project, readers are encouraged to review the project presentation. Such insights will provide a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and execution behind this innovative café.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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