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Vertical Farming Hub Crafted from Local Stone and Reclaimed Wood in a Greenhouse Setting

Author:
Nathan Hume
Vertical Farming Hub Crafted from Local Stone and Reclaimed Wood in a Greenhouse Setting

Project in-detail

Set within a unique inverted greenhouse structure, the restaurant seamlessly integrates vertical farming and localized stone materials, offering diners an immersive culinary experience rooted in sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates an inverted greenhouse design that integrates dining and cultivation spaces.
02
Utilizes locally sourced stone and reclaimed wood for both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a vertical farming system that allows for on-site growth of herbs and vegetables.
04
Designed with large glass expanses that optimize natural light and facilitate air circulation.
05
Encourages community engagement through interactive workshops and farm-to-table experiences.
The Yogafjós Greenhouse Restaurant represents a thoughtful architectural endeavor that merges culinary experiences with sustainable agricultural practices. Located in Iceland, this project reconceptualizes the traditional restaurant setting by integrating a greenhouse into its design, reflecting a clear commitment to local produce and environmental responsibility. The architecture encapsulates not only the physical aspects of dining but also the broader narrative of food production, making the dining experience both immersive and educational.

From an architectural standpoint, the layout features distinct zones that enhance functionality while fostering a connection between patrons and the food they consume. The dining areas are designed to provide expansive views of the greenhouse, allowing diners to observe the growth and preparation of fresh ingredients. This transparency encourages appreciation for local agriculture and cultivates an understanding of the culinary process. Furthermore, the arrangement promotes an interactive ambiance, where the sounds and visuals of food preparation become part of the dining experience.

One of the unique aspects of this design is the incorporation of a vertical farming system within the restaurant. This technique maximizes the use of space while enabling the growth of a diverse range of herbs and vegetables, ensuring a continual supply of fresh produce for the kitchen. Designed for efficiency, the vertical farm not only serves practical purposes but also acts as a visual statement, emphasizing the restaurant's commitment to sustainability. The interaction between the kitchen and dining space fosters a sense of community, inviting guests into the heart of food preparation and celebrating the farm-to-table philosophy.

Material selection in the Yogafjós Greenhouse Restaurant further reinforces its connection to local culture and ecology. Localized stone is used for structural elements, grounding the building in its natural context. Weathered wood details contribute warmth and texture, reflecting traditional Icelandic aesthetics while adhering to environmentally conscious practices. Large expanses of glass facilitate natural light and ventilation, breaking down barriers between indoor and outdoor spaces, thus harmonizing the architecture with its surrounding landscape.

The project addresses community engagement by providing a space that serves beyond the traditional confines of a restaurant. Workshops and guided tours within the vertical farm can be organized, allowing visitors to learn about sustainable practices and the importance of local agriculture. This innovative approach not only enriches the dining experience but also reinforces the restaurant's role as a community hub, highlighting the importance of sustainability in everyday life.

In terms of architectural design, the Yogafjós Greenhouse Restaurant stands out due to its clever inversion of conventional architectural forms. Rather than a simple dining room, the entire structure functions as an ecosystem that nurtures both people and plants. This integrated design strategy fosters a deeper connection to food sources and enhances the overall aesthetic of the space. As visitors dine, they are transported into an environment where nature and culinary art coexist, creating a unique setting that is both functional and evocative.

The unique design approaches taken in this project challenge traditional restaurant concepts and offer an insightful exploration of how architecture can influence culinary experiences. It emphasizes sustainability, community interaction, and education through design, encouraging a reevaluation of how we perceive and interact with our food sources.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural ideas that shaped this project, it is beneficial to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that lay the groundwork for this innovative approach. Each element contributes to a holistic understanding of how the Yogafjós Greenhouse Restaurant redefines notions of dining and sustainability within the context of Icelandic culture.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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