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Volcanic Rock Follies Enhancing Community Experience in a Greenhouse Restaurant

Author:
Andri Luescher
Volcanic Rock Follies Enhancing Community Experience in a Greenhouse Restaurant
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Constructed with distinctive red volcanic rock follies, this greenhouse restaurant integrates natural light and community engagement, enhancing the agricultural experience within its unique setting near Iceland's Mývatn Nature Baths.
5 key facts about this project
01
Retaining walls made from local black volcanic rock integrate the structure into its natural setting.
02
Five distinct follies, each clad in red volcanic rock, enhance the functional diversity of the facility.
03
The U-shaped layout captures panoramic views of Mývatn Nature Baths and Hverfjall Volcano.
04
Translucent panels allow ample daylight, fostering a sustainable environment for plant growth.
05
A split-level circulation path offers insights into the greenhouse’s horticultural activities below.

The Vogafjós Greenhouse/Restaurant combines the functions of a dining space and a greenhouse in a single structure. Located near the Mývatn Nature Baths and Hverfjall Volcano in Iceland, the design emphasizes the connection between the building and its surroundings. The structure features a traditional gable roof and a U-shaped layout that invites visitors while offering views of the nearby landscape.

Mass and Materiality

The building’s mass takes shape around the site’s boundaries, effectively creating a dialogue between the interior space and the natural environment. Black volcanic rock forms the retaining walls, tying the building to its geological context. This material choice highlights the landscape while contributing to the overall stability of the design. The geometry of the building draws from the volcanic features in the area, enhancing its presence within the setting.

Functional Organization

The layout includes five separate follies, each utilizing red volcanic rock and designed to serve different purposes. The Triangle folly marks the entrance, while the Square folly provides space for communal dining. The Circle folly accommodates the open kitchen, and the fourth folly serves as a multi-purpose room. The fifth folly acts as a standalone element, suggesting possibilities for future growth. This arrangement allows for interaction between visitors and the various spaces, fostering a sense of community.

Circulation and Experience

A clear circulation path runs along the inner curve of the building, connecting the different functions. This path not only directs foot traffic but also offers elevated views of the greenhouse activities below. The design facilitates movement through the space, allowing visitors to engage with various elements while maintaining visual access to the central courtyard. The overall layout promotes an experiential flow, encouraging exploration and connection.

Daylight and Atmosphere

The use of translucent greenhouse panels enables natural light to fill the interior, supporting plant growth and enhancing the overall ambiance. This choice draws attention to the changing light conditions throughout the day. The interior atmosphere varies as sunlight filters through, creating a lively environment that aligns with the goals of the project. The design prioritizes sustainability through passive solar gain, further reinforcing the relationship between the architecture and the natural world.

The thoughtful attention to detail creates a space where each design element works together, reflecting the character of the surrounding landscape while serving the needs of its users.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
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