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Turf Roof And Glass Dome Crafted With Volcanic Stone And Cross-Laminated Timber For Sustainable Community Living

Authors:
Ana Tiriba, Filip Strebeyko
Turf Roof And Glass Dome Crafted With Volcanic Stone And Cross-Laminated Timber For Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Constructed using cross-laminated timber and volcanic stone, the design’s turf roof and glass dome create a seamless integration with the natural landscape, serving as a multifunctional hub for community engagement and sustainable agriculture.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a turf roof that naturally insulates and blends with the surrounding landscape.
02
Volcanic stone is used for both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, reflecting local geology.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide enhanced strength while utilizing sustainable building methods.
04
Hydroponic systems are integrated within the design, promoting local agricultural practices year-round.
05
A unique circular layout encourages community interaction and seamless transitions between spaces.
The Ouroboros project represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and nature, emphasizing sustainability through innovative design principles. Found in a serene landscape, likely in Iceland, this architectural endeavor explores concepts of renewal and interconnectedness, symbolized by its circular structure. The name, stemming from ancient symbolism, resonates with themes of cyclicality and harmony, underscoring the project's intent to create a space that not only belongs to its environment but actively promotes collaboration with nature.

Functionally, the Ouroboros serves as a multifunctional facility that blends various spaces for community engagement, agriculture, and dining, illustrating the trend of adaptive reuse in contemporary architecture. The design promotes a dialogue between visitors and the natural world, facilitating activities such as communal gatherings, educational workshops, and local food production. One of its central features is the integrated greenhouse, which employs hydroponic systems, allowing year-round agricultural practices. This design approach not only enhances the visitors' experience but also aims to foster a deeper understanding of sustainable living practices.

The architectural elements of the Ouroboros project deserve particular attention. Its exterior showcases a large domed roof made of glass, supported by wooden beams. This combination allows sunlight to flood the interior while maintaining structural integrity. The use of glass represents a contemporary approach to blurring the boundaries between inside and outside, inviting the surrounding landscape into the space. The building is enveloped by carefully arranged gardens and native vegetation, which not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also promote local biodiversity.

Internally, the project is organized around a circular layout that facilitates a smooth flow of movement between various spaces. The dining areas, strategically placed with panoramic views, create inviting settings for guests to relish locally sourced meals while enjoying the natural beauty surrounding them. The interiors are characterized by the warmth of natural materials, including sustainably sourced wood and volcanic stone. These choices provide tactile contrast to the sleek, modern glass paneling while reinforcing the connection to local geology and climate.

A notable component of the design is the turf roof, a traditional Icelandic building technique that offers additional insulation and further integrates the structure into its landscape. This aspect not only helps manage energy consumption but also contributes to maintaining local wildlife habitats, emphasizing the project’s commitment to sustainability. The architectural approach taken in the Ouroboros reflects an awareness of the local environment and its cultural significance, making it a relevant model for future developments in similar contexts.

Furthermore, the Ouroboros demonstrates unique design strategies by emphasizing biophilic principles, encouraging occupants to engage with their environment. The incorporation of natural elements, such as indoor gardens and water features, fosters a strong connection to nature, positively impacting visitors’ physical and mental well-being.

In summary, the Ouroboros project exemplifies a modern architectural response to pressing ecological concerns while providing an enriching space for community interaction and education. Its multifunctional design, coupled with an emphasis on sustainable practices and local materials, positions it as a noteworthy example within contemporary architecture. For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural ideas and design details of the Ouroboros, a thorough exploration of the project presentation, including architectural plans and sections, is encouraged. Such insights will provide a richer understanding of the thoughtful intentions behind the project and reveal the innovative approaches adopted by its designers.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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