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Transparent Greenhouse Embraces Local Agriculture With Panoramic Views

Authors:
Amirhossein Jafari, Javad Seidi
Transparent Greenhouse Embraces Local Agriculture With Panoramic Views

Project in-detail

With a transparent structure that optimizes sunlight and panoramic views of the Icelandic landscape, the greenhouse integrates local agriculture with a public dining experience, fostering community engagement and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Transparent walls enhance sunlight capture for optimum plant growth.
02
Panoramic views incorporate natural surroundings into the dining experience.
03
Modular design allows for future expansion and adaptability.
04
Centralized vertical circulation optimizes movement through the space.
05
Integrated educational areas promote hands-on engagement with agriculture.

The greenhouse is located in Iceland, a place with Tundra and Subpolar Oceanic climates. Its primary aim is to produce locally sourced food while offering a space where visitors can engage with the process. The design focuses on combining agricultural operations with public involvement, allowing people to learn about sustainable farming and plant care.

Design Concept and Structure

The greenhouse uses transparent materials for its walls and roof. This choice lets in plenty of sunlight, which is crucial for the growth of plants. Internally, the greenhouse benefits from the greenhouse effect; it remains warmer inside than outside, which is important in the cold Icelandic climate. The building consists of three levels, each designed for particular purposes while maintaining a consistent architectural theme.

Spatial Organization

On the first floor, visitors find the greenhouse beside a cafe, bar, social spaces, and essential service areas. The layout emphasizes openness and encourages interaction among guests, allowing them to closely engage with the plants. Through these designated areas for hands-on activities, the design aims to educate visitors on the significance of local agriculture.

Operational Efficiency

The second floor features a kitchen that serves the dining areas located below. This setup promotes a practical flow between where food is prepared and enjoyed. The third floor houses a restaurant that provides panoramic views of the landscape, particularly the nearby hot springs. This arrangement enhances the experience for visitors and establishes a connection between the structure and its natural surroundings.

Architectural References

Drawing inspiration from traditional Icelandic architecture, the design incorporates long forms and gable roofs. These elements adapt well to the local environment and ensure the building fits into its context. The use of modular components allows for adjustments in the future, ensuring it can expand to meet community needs as they change.

Tactile Engagement

Vertical movement within the structure is organized around a central core that includes elevators and staircases. This helps keep foot traffic flowing smoothly while maintaining the overall visual appeal. Visitors are encouraged to explore the space, experiencing it firsthand. Light filters through the transparent walls, creating a dynamic atmosphere that changes throughout the day, enhancing the connection between the interior and the unique Icelandic landscape.

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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

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