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Earth-Sheltered Residence Constructed with Turf and High-Performance Glass for Enhanced Thermal Comfort

Authors:
Felipe Gallego Lopez, Valentina Agudelo Velez
Earth-Sheltered Residence Constructed with Turf and High-Performance Glass for Enhanced Thermal Comfort

Project in-detail

Constructed with earth-sheltered techniques and high-performance glass, this residence integrates traditional turf materials to optimize thermal efficiency while serving as a modern living space in the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with an earth-sheltered approach, the design minimizes environmental impact while enhancing insulation.
02
The use of turf as a primary building material reflects traditional Icelandic construction techniques.
03
Large, strategically placed glass panels optimize natural light and reduce energy consumption.
04
The bent A-frame design creates an organic silhouette that integrates seamlessly with the landscape.
05
Local timber is employed for structural elements, ensuring sustainability and cultural relevance.

The Hollow Cabin is a contemporary architectural project located in Iceland that reinterprets traditional turf house designs. This project emphasizes the integration of local materials and environmental efficiency, addressing the challenges posed by the region's unique climatic conditions. The architectural design provides functional living spaces while fostering a deep connection with the natural landscape, ensuring the building's form aligns with its surroundings.

The Hollow Cabin serves as a residential space that promotes communal living and a sense of community among its inhabitants. The structure features interconnected spaces designed for both social interaction and private retreat. This duality reflects the evolving needs of modern lifestyles while maintaining roots in traditional Icelandic architecture.

Unique Contextual Integration What sets the Hollow Cabin apart from numerous contemporary residential designs is its respect for the local topography and cultural heritage. The architecture utilizes organic curves in its form, which harmonizes with the undulating landscape, thereby reducing visual disruption. The design draws inspiration from conventional turf houses while incorporating modern advancements in materials and construction techniques. This approach results in a building that uses earth and turf for insulation, which is ideal for maintaining thermal comfort in a harsh climate.

The building’s envelope features high-performance glass that provides ample natural light and enhances the connection between interior spaces and the external environment. The thoughtful placement of windows not only allows residents to enjoy sweeping views of the landscape but also optimizes solar gain. The strategic orientation of the building further enhances its performance by utilizing passive solar heating and natural ventilation.

Functional Spatial Design The spatial organization of the Hollow Cabin focuses on usability and the quality of living experiences. The first level includes communal areas designed for gatherings, complete with an open living and dining configuration that encourages social interaction among residents. The layout facilitates flexibility, allowing spaces to adapt for various purposes.

The second level is reserved for private spaces, including bedrooms and observation decks that extend the living experience into the outdoor landscape. The integration of these spaces ensures that each area serves multiple functions, enriching the occupants' daily lives. By emphasizing a balance between communal and private domains, the Hollow Cabin effectively meets the demands of contemporary residential living.

For a comprehensive overview of the architectural plans, sections, and innovative design approaches that define the Hollow Cabin, the reader is encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Detailed insights into the architectural designs and the sustainable practices employed can provide a more profound understanding of its architectural significance.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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