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Turf Roof and Inverted Volumes Enhancing Cultural Experiences

Authors:
Penelope Fung, Musab Badahdah
Turf Roof and Inverted Volumes Enhancing Cultural Experiences

Project in-detail

The innovative use of turf roofing combined with an inverted gable structure creates a seamless integration with the volcanic landscape, offering a unique cultural center that highlights Icelandic heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses traditional turf roofing to enhance thermal efficiency.
02
Features an inverted gable design to create a unique spatial experience.
03
Incorporates a curvilinear pathway to guide visitors through the landscape.
04
Allows nighttime camping on the roof for a direct connection to nature.
05
Frames the Hverfjall volcano as a central visual element in the design.

The Hverfjall Museum is an innovative cultural center located in an environment shaped by volcanic activity in Iceland. It emphasizes the heritage of traditional turf houses while integrating modern architectural ideas. The design concept, known as "Endurfæðing," which means "rebirth," seeks to renew these age-old building methods in a way that blends with the local terrain.

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

The museum features an inverted gable roof, split from the center. One half is rotated, allowing the lower edges of the structure to align closely. This design fosters a strong connection to the surrounding landscape, inviting nature beneath the turf roof. The approach creates a dialogue between built forms and natural elements, highlighting the landscape's role in architecture.

SPATIAL ARRANGEMENT

Within the museum are two interconnected sections. These areas are linked by a well-planned pathway that guides visitors from the town to a central black box. This black box frames Hverfjall volcano, marking it as a key visual and experiential point for guests. The arrangement encourages visitors to connect with both the architecture and the outdoor environment in a meaningful way.

EXHIBITION EXPERIENCE

Inside, a variety of exhibitions present the links between Icelandic culture and nature. Visitors have choices when they leave the central black box. They may take guided tours to the nearby volcano or return to explore the displays under the turf roof. This layout offers a rich experience, emphasizing the significance of the landscape and its connection to cultural narratives.

MATERIALITY AND INNOVATION

Using turf as a roofing element connects the museum to traditional construction practices. This material pays tribute to the past and also helps regulate the interior climate, ensuring a stable environment for the exhibits. The visual impact of the turf adds to the museum’s identity, forming a contemporary landmark that respects its ecological setting.

The roof design also allows visitors to camp under the northern lights, offering a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Icelandic sky while engaging with the natural surroundings.

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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
competition now

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