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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
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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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