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Modular Living Shaped by Turf Roofs and Local Stone in Icelandic Landscape

Author:
Ricardo Torres
Modular Living Shaped by Turf Roofs and Local Stone in Icelandic Landscape
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Crafted with turf roofs and local stone, this modular living space in Iceland effectively merges traditional building methods with modern sustainability practices to create a flexible residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional turf roofing for enhanced insulation and integration with the landscape.
02
Features modular construction allowing for flexible layout adjustments based on occupant needs.
03
Incorporates local stone foundations, connecting the structure to its geographic context.
04
Employs large glass windows to maximize natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to promote environmental sustainability.

## Architectural Design Report: Turf Module Archive, Iceland

### Project Overview

The Turf Module Archive, located in Iceland, represents a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional Icelandic turf houses. It merges historical architectural references with modern design principles, emphasizing sustainability and modular adaptability. The project is designed to resonate with Iceland's unique geographic features while addressing the functional demands of contemporary living.

### Spatial Configuration

The layout of the Turf Module Archive prioritizes communal living while providing opportunities for privacy. Central to the design is a living and dining space that fosters social interaction through an open-plan structure. Accommodations are offered in modular sleeping quarters, which can be reconfigured based on the number of inhabitants, promoting flexibility. Practical kitchen and utility areas are integrated into the design for efficient use of space and functionality.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project's material strategy incorporates locally sourced elements to minimize environmental impact. Timber is used for structural framing and interior finishes, providing warmth and aesthetic appeal, while turf serves as an effective insulation layer on the roof. Local stone establishes a connection to the site, and large glass windows offer expansive views of the surrounding wilderness while maximizing natural light. Sustainable practices are central to the design, featuring passive solar heating and a rainwater harvesting system, as well as green roofs that promote biodiversity and manage runoff efficiently.

The incorporation of ornamental patterns on the facade further enhances the architectural integrity, drawing inspiration from traditional Icelandic motifs to create a visual link to the cultural heritage of the region. This thoughtful integration of design elements ensures that the Turf Module Archive serves as both a functional living space and a reflection of local identity.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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