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Vertical Gardens and Natural Ventilation in a Scenic Icelandic Dining Space

Author:
Jacqueline Dimitrova
Vertical Gardens and Natural Ventilation in a Scenic Icelandic Dining Space

Project in-detail

With vertical gardens enhancing the indoor climate and natural ventilation systems optimizing air flow, this restaurant offers a thoughtful dining experience against the backdrop of Iceland's scenic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical gardens are integrated into the interior, enhancing air quality and aesthetics.
02
Natural ventilation systems optimize indoor climate control without mechanical reliance.
03
The design features a bent A-frame structure, providing unique architectural contours.
04
A dedicated lounge area offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Separate service entrances maintain operational efficiency while minimizing guest disruption.

The Iceland Greenhouse Restaurant project blends architecture with nature, creating a unique space for dining in a scenic landscape. Situated in Iceland, the restaurant is designed to connect patrons with the outdoors while providing comfortable and functional areas for different dining experiences. The overall design prioritizes a relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing guests to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings.

Spatial Organization

The ground floor includes a spacious dining area and a separate lounge. These spaces are positioned to maximize views of the environment outside, encouraging interaction with nature. Vertical gardens are integrated into the design, enhancing the interior with greenery. This not only beautifies the space but also contributes to improved air quality for guests.

Functional Aspects

Guests enter through a clearly defined main entrance that facilitates easy access. A dedicated service entrance is included to ensure staff can work efficiently without disrupting diners. The design thoughtfully considers how guests and staff move through the restaurant, helping to maintain a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Environmental Considerations

The expansive garden area plays a crucial role in connecting the indoor and outdoor environments. It invites guests to enjoy nature while dining, reinforcing the restaurant's ties to its setting. Natural ventilation is a key feature of the design and helps create a pleasant indoor climate. This focus on fresh air aligns with current principles in sustainable architecture.

Elevational Design

The building's elevations on all sides contribute to its overall look. Roof contours add both visual interest and functional benefits, such as effective rainwater management. These designs allow plenty of natural light to enter while offering privacy when needed. As a result, the restaurant presents a thoughtful and balanced aesthetic that complements the natural surroundings.

The incorporation of vertical gardens and ample natural light fosters a calm and inviting environment, enhancing each dining experience and strengthening the connection between people and the natural beauty around them.

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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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