Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Translucent Roof Panels and Volcanic Stone Create a Community-Centric Greenhouse in Iceland

Author:
Andri Luescher
Translucent Roof Panels and Volcanic Stone Create a Community-Centric Greenhouse in Iceland

Project in-detail

Nestled among Iceland's volcanic landscapes, a greenhouse constructed with translucent polycarbonate and local lava rock serves as a vibrant community hub for culinary experiences and agricultural education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local volcanic lava rock for structural insulation and aesthetic continuity with the landscape.
02
Incorporates a U-shaped design that encourages community interaction and movement throughout the space.
03
Features a transparent roof made from polycarbonate panels, optimizing natural light for plant growth.
04
Includes a multi-purpose area for hands-on farming workshops and culinary demonstrations, promoting local skills.
05
Emphasizes sustainability through eco-friendly materials and construction methods tailored to the regional climate.
The Vogaðís Greenhouse/Restaurant represents a thoughtful intersection of community, agriculture, and sustainable architecture within the rich volcanic landscape of Iceland. This project embodies a contemporary approach to rural development, where architecture serves not merely as a shelter but as a facilitator of interaction, learning, and connection among farming communities. Its design effectively blends functionality with the surrounding natural environment, enriching both the local community and the visitor experience.

The primary function of the Vogaðís facility is to act as a community hub, fostering relationships between residents, farmers, and visitors through shared culinary and agricultural experiences. The architecture is configured in a U-shape, inviting users to engage with different areas of the space in an intuitive manner. This design encourages movement and interaction, creating a dynamic environment that can accommodate various activities, from dining to educational workshops.

Significant architectural details are evident throughout the project. A key feature is the use of translucent polycarbonate panels in the roof construction. This material choice ensures that the greenhouse remains well-lit and primarily energy-efficient, creating a bright internal atmosphere conducive to plant growth. Complementing the transparent elements, galvanized steel trusses provide structural integrity while allowing for expansive interior spaces. This design choice supports the inclusion of large volumes dedicated to dining and communal activities.

The walls of the greenhouse are clad in oxidized lava rock, a material chosen for its relevance to the surrounding geology and its excellent insulating properties. This decision exemplifies an ecological consciousness, as the building not only reflects its natural surroundings visually but also utilizes resources that enhance sustainability. The black volcanic rock retaining wall supports the structure and serves as a functional yet expressive landscape feature, guiding water drainage efficiently while emphasizing the local character.

Analysis of the internal layout reveals a multiplicity of folies, or specialized structures, which serve distinct purposes. Each folly caters to different aspects of the greenhouse's mission, including an open kitchen for culinary demonstrations, a multi-purpose room for educational functions, and an inviting dining area that encourages communal meals. This variety enhances user engagement by promoting interaction among visitors and the agricultural processes being showcased.

What sets this project apart is its holistic approach to integrating architectural design with community values and ecological responsibility. It harmonizes tradition with modern needs, drawing inspiration from conventional agricultural buildings while introducing innovative design ideas that cater to contemporary lifestyles. The flow of spaces within the facility is designed to guide visitors through an experiential journey that blends education and relaxation, fostering a deeper appreciation for local food production and agricultural practices.

The project also acknowledges its geographical context, situated near Myvatn Nature Baths, allowing visitors to appreciate the unique Icelandic landscape. The design considers climatic variations and natural elements characteristic of the area, ensuring that the building remains resilient and relevant over time.

For a more detailed exploration of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas involved in the Vogaðís Greenhouse/Restaurant, it is encouraged to delve deeper into the project's presentation. Understanding these elements offers valuable insights into the thoughtful design language that shapes this community-centric architectural endeavor.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy