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Basalt Stone Facade and Green Roof Integration in a Sustainable Residential Retreat

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Basalt Stone Facade and Green Roof Integration in a Sustainable Residential Retreat
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Integrating a basalt stone facade with a green roof, this residential retreat leverages local materials and traditional methods to achieve energy efficiency while harmonizing with the rugged Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Basalt stone facade enhances thermal mass and integrates with the local geology.
02
Green roof system improves insulation and encourages biodiversity.
03
Bent A-frame design optimizes snow management and structural stability.
04
Local birch wood cladding provides sustainable aesthetics and durability.
05
Passive design principles enhance energy efficiency throughout the year.

### Overview

The Turf House project is situated in Iceland, designed to engage with local climate and cultural context through the lens of sustainable architecture. By merging traditional Icelandic turf house forms with contemporary sustainable practices, the project aims to create an environment that resonates with both the natural landscape and the needs of its inhabitants. Its primary intent is to celebrate local architectural narratives while adapting to modern living standards.

### Spatial Configuration and Material Use

The architectural design consists of gabled roofs that efficiently shed snow, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and structural performance. Within, the plan prioritizes communal areas alongside private spaces to ensure both functionality and comfort. The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability: basalt stone veneer provides thermal mass for temperature regulation, while locally sourced birch wood cladding offers warmth and visual appeal. Notable features include basalt flagstone pavers for durability and blackened steel windows that introduce a contemporary edge while harmonizing with the rugged landscape.

### Sustainability Strategies

Sustainability is a core principle of the Turf House. The design partially burrows into the topography, enhancing insulation and reducing exposure to harsh weather conditions. Additionally, the integration of green roofs and natural wall insulation demonstrates a focus on renewable and biodegradable materials. This approach underscores the project's dedication to minimizing its carbon footprint while maintaining comfort for occupants through careful manipulation of passive solar techniques.

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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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