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Translucent Glass Facades and Charred Wooden Shingles in a Sustainable Dining Environment

Author:
Dominic Poe
Translucent Glass Facades and Charred Wooden Shingles in a Sustainable Dining Environment

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design creates a seamless connection with nature while promoting sustainable dining through its integrated greenhouse concept.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for sustainable structural integrity.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light throughout the space.
04
Integrates an on-site greenhouse to support farm-to-table dining.
05
Designed to harmonize with Iceland's rugged landscape while ensuring functionality.
The Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant is an architectural project situated in Iceland that combines dining with agricultural practices. This project represents a commitment to sustainability, local food sourcing, and a close relationship with the natural environment. The design integrates a greenhouse directly into the restaurant experience, allowing for fresh produce to be cultivated on-site while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the space. The architecture emphasizes transparency, natural light, and a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments.

Spatial Organization
The layout of the Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant includes a spacious dining area that provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The incorporation of large glass facades facilitates ample natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. The indoor space is designed to accommodate varied seating arrangements, promoting flexibility for different dining experiences. Key components such as the kitchen are positioned adjacent to the greenhouse, optimizing efficiency for food preparation and service.

Material Selection
The material palette of the project is purposeful, featuring wood, glass, and concrete. Wood is used for structural elements and furnishings, providing a natural warmth that aligns with the sustainability ethos. Glass is extensively utilized, particularly in the greenhouse, to maximize natural light and visual connectivity with the external environment. Concrete serves as the foundational material, ensuring stability while withstanding Iceland's climatic conditions. This thoughtful selection enhances not only the structural integrity but also aligns with the project's overarching vision of harmony with nature.

Unique Design Approaches
What distinguishes the Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant from similar projects is the innovative integration of agricultural production within a dining venue. This dual function encourages patrons to engage with the food sourcing process, fostering a greater appreciation for farm-to-table practices. The design incorporates biophilic elements, promoting a connection to the natural environment and enhancing the sensory experience of dining. The overall architectural approach is minimalist, ensuring that the building enhances rather than competes with the surrounding landscape. This project showcases strategies that prioritize ecological awareness and community involvement, emphasizing that architecture can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes in sustainable ways.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas further, readers are encouraged to engage with the project presentation, which provides deeper insights into this significant architectural endeavor.
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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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