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Volcanic Ash Concrete Meets Geothermal Efficiency in a Restaurant and Indoor Farming Facility

Author:
Meds Studio
Volcanic Ash Concrete Meets Geothermal Efficiency in a Restaurant and Indoor Farming Facility

Project in-detail

Rooted in volcanic ash concrete and designed to maximize geothermal energy, this restaurant uniquely integrates organic farming with a culinary experience, offering diners a direct connection to the source of their meals.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building utilizes volcanic ash concrete, enhancing sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
02
A green roof is incorporated, promoting biodiversity and natural insulation.
03
Extensive glass facades provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and agricultural activities.
04
Indoor farming areas are strategically designed for transparency, allowing diners to engage with food production.
05
The structure is oriented to maximize passive solar heating and natural light, enhancing energy efficiency.
The architectural design project presents a thoughtful integration of a restaurant and indoor farming facility, strategically positioned in Iceland's captivating landscape, near the well-known Lake Mývatn and the popular Diamond Circle route. This project embodies a commitment to sustainability while celebrating the local agricultural traditions and the natural environment. By bringing food production and dining together under one roof, the design fosters a unique relationship between consumers and their food sources.

The project serves multiple functions: it operates as a dining establishment while simultaneously showcasing organic farming practices. This dual purpose encourages visitors to not only enjoy their meals but also to gain insights into the agricultural process behind them. The architecture supports this concept by featuring spaces that allow for visibility into both the growing areas and culinary operations, thereby enhancing the guest experience through transparency and interactivity.

Key elements of the design include an innovative building form that echoes the surrounding landscapes, utilizing organic shapes that mirror the natural contours of the site. This approach helps to ensure that the structure harmonizes with its environment rather than disrupting it. The use of volcanic ash concrete serves as the primary material for the building, chosen not only for its strength and durability but also for its sustainability. The decision to incorporate locally sourced materials reflects a broader ethos of respecting and utilizing the immediate context, ensuring that the architecture is both functional and environmentally conscious.

The internal layout is carefully considered to create a flow that enhances social interactions among visitors. The ground floor features open and flexible cooking areas, with expansive windows intentionally placed to frame views of the Hverfjall volcano, inviting diners to engage with the landscape while they dine. The first floor houses the main dining area, designed to create an intimate yet inviting atmosphere. This space is enhanced by the presence of herbs and crops growing within sight, reinforcing the connection between the dining experience and organic food production.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in how the architecture encourages interaction between visitors and the concepts of sustainability and transparency in food sourcing. The incorporation of a green roof further contributes to this ethos, providing insulation and encouraging biodiversity by creating a habitat for local wildlife. The use of sustainable timber and cork board throughout the interior spaces enhances comfort while also addressing acoustic considerations, ensuring an enjoyable dining atmosphere.

This project not only addresses contemporary issues around sustainable architecture but also educates and inspires visitors about the importance of organic farming. By emphasizing user experience and environmental awareness through smart architectural choices, the design serves as a model of how food production facilities can function as educational platforms.

For those interested in exploring the architectural nuances of this project, a closer examination of the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs can provide further insights. Observing how each choice supports the overarching mission of sustainability and community connection can enhance appreciation for both the architecture itself and the innovative ideas it encompasses. Engaging with the presentation materials will reveal a full spectrum of the design's intentions and outcomes, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of this distinctive 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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