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Sod-Covered Roofs and Geothermal Foundations in A Modular Eco-Friendly Guesthouse

Authors:
Igor Anoshchenkov, Artem Kovalenko, Natalia Maltseva
Sod-Covered Roofs and Geothermal Foundations in A Modular Eco-Friendly Guesthouse

Project in-detail

A sod-covered roof integrates with geothermal foundations to create a modular accommodation that harmonizes with the Icelandic landscape while providing a comfortable retreat for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sod-covered roofs enhance insulation and blend with the surrounding landscape.
02
Geothermal foundations provide efficient heating, reducing energy consumption.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Modular design allows for flexible accommodation arrangements.
05
Panoramic glazing frames views of the Northern Lights for an immersive experience.

### Project Overview

Located in Iceland, this development comprises a guest house and a main building designed to enhance the interaction between visitors and the surrounding natural landscape. The intent is to provide a modern accommodation experience while reflecting the serene ambiance characteristic of the Nordic environment. By drawing inspiration from traditional Icelandic architecture, the design promotes a balance between human habitation and its pristine setting.

### Spatial Strategy and Integration

The main building adopts a contemporary interpretation of classic turf house features, characterized by a saddle roof covered in sod. The architectural layout emphasizes an open-plan design that encourages movement and social interactions among guests, with specific areas allocated for cooking, dining, and leisure activities. The positioning of bedrooms is strategic, with expansive glazing that optimizes views of the Northern Lights, fostering an immersive environment that connects occupants with the outdoor landscape.

Modular guest houses complement the main building, each maintaining a cohesive aesthetic while offering individual character. Designed with flexible interiors, these units cater to varying group sizes without sacrificing comfort. Their architectural forms echo the main building, utilizing sloping roofs and allowing for efficient space utilization that enhances guest experience.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs thoughtfully selected materials that align with sustainable practices and the local heritage. Timber serves as the primary structural component, noted for its ecological benefits and warmth, while the sod roofing integrates biophilic qualities. Large expanses of glass invite natural light and create visual connections to the spectacular surroundings.

In the modular guest houses, modern construction techniques such as sandwich panels and metal cladding ensure thermal efficiency and durability. Pneumatic supports allow for easier assembly and adaptability, making these units responsive to the evolving needs of guests.

Energy-efficient systems, such as geothermal heating, reinforce the commitment to sustainability, aligning with Iceland’s focus on renewable resources. This combination of innovative design and a thoughtful approach to material selection underscores the project's intention to meld functional accommodation with environmental stewardship.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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