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Thermal Mass and Panoramic Views in a Sustainable Greenhouse Restaurant

Authors:
Colin Hua, Aaron Mak
Thermal Mass and Panoramic Views in a Sustainable Greenhouse Restaurant

Project in-detail

A single-pitched roof captures rainwater while double-glazed windows provide expansive views of the tranquil Mývatn landscape in a sustainable greenhouse restaurant designed for energy efficiency and natural light.
5 key facts about this project
01
Maximizes natural light through strategically placed double-glazed windows.
02
Single-pitched roof design facilitates efficient rainwater drainage.
03
Central atrium enhances circulation and connects distinct functional zones.
04
Concrete envelope provides thermal mass suitable for Iceland’s climate.
05
Layout optimizes energy conservation with strategically placed spaces for sunlight.

The Vogafjós Greenhouse Restaurant is located in the picturesque area of Mývatn, Iceland, offering visitors an inviting dining experience alongside stunning natural views. The design emphasizes a close connection to the landscape, allowing guests to enjoy sights of Mývatn Nature Baths and Hverfjall. The overall concept balances functionality with environmental awareness, showcasing a layout that prioritizes ease of movement and visual engagement.

Structural Considerations

The project thoughtfully considers the site's topography, addressing height differences to limit excavation and minimize environmental disruption. This careful planning leads to reduced construction costs and helps maintain the integrity of the surrounding landscape. The inclusion of a parking area ensures proper drainage while keeping the land adaptable for potential future expansion of the greenhouse.

Material Usage

Concrete is the main material used for the building's structure. Its durability and thermal mass are particularly suited for Iceland's challenging climate, providing strength against intense weather conditions. The choice of this material enhances the building's energy efficiency. In addition, the south-facing curtain wall features glazing to maximize natural light, balancing illumination with temperature control in a practical manner.

Spatial Organization

Distinct functional zones divide the building into the greenhouse planting area and the restaurant spaces. This separation supports efficient movement for visitors throughout the facility. A central atrium serves as a central hub, helping guests navigate easily between areas. The arrangement of spaces is designed to make the most of natural sunlight, which reduces the need for artificial lighting and creates a more inviting atmosphere.

Design Details

The roof of the building is single-pitched, facilitating water drainage during rain and snow. This design element is vital in a region with varied weather patterns. Additionally, light tubes incorporate natural light into the interior, decreasing reliance on electrical lighting. These features combined help craft a space that operates efficiently while enhancing the experience of dining within the captivating landscape of Mývatn.

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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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