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Turf Roof Structure Blending Vegetation and Volcanic Stone With Community Gathering Spaces

Authors:
Sining Xu, Cong Liu
Turf Roof Structure Blending Vegetation and Volcanic Stone With Community Gathering Spaces

Project in-detail

Blending a lush turf roof with volcanic stone, this café harmonizes with its Icelandic landscape while serving as a vibrant community gathering space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The café incorporates a living turf roof that enhances insulation while promoting biodiversity.
02
Volcanic stone elements are thoughtfully integrated into the façade, establishing a strong connection to the local geology.
03
Interior spaces are designed with large glass panels, maximizing natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
The use of peatfiber in the construction reflects a commitment to local and sustainable building practices.
05
The layout encourages social interaction by providing flexible communal areas that foster community engagement.
The Turf House Café is an architectural project located in Iceland that embodies a thoughtful integration of cultural heritage and modern design principles. This café is more than a place to enjoy food and beverage; it represents a deep connection to the Icelandic landscape and traditions, drawing inspiration from the vernacular architecture of the region, specifically the historic turf houses.

The primary function of the Turf House Café is to serve as a gathering space for locals and visitors alike, providing a comfortable atmosphere for social interaction and cultural exchange. Its design facilitates a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing the overall experience of the users. The careful arrangement of its interconnected volumes allows for distinct functional areas, such as a café seating area, an exhibition space, and welcoming reception zones, all designed to cater to diverse visitor needs.

The architectural design is characterized by the innovative use of materials that speak to Iceland's landscape. Reinforced concrete provides the necessary structural support while ensuring longevity, while black stone elements add a tactile quality, grounding the building in its volcanic surroundings. One of the defining features of the café is its turf roof, which not only pays homage to traditional building techniques but also serves practical functions such as thermal insulation and ecological enhancement through the incorporation of vegetation. This roof integrates the building into the surrounding landscape, blurring the lines between natural and built environments.

Large expanses of glass are utilized throughout the project, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior spaces while providing stunning views of the nearby volcano and diverse terrain. This connection to the outdoors reinforces the café’s mission of promoting an appreciation for Iceland's rich history and beautiful landscape. Strategically placed windows guide visitors' sightlines, further enhancing their interaction with the natural world.

Unique design approaches are evident in the café’s layout and organizational principles. Each area within the building is thoughtfully designed to function both independently and as part of a larger whole. The incorporation of communal areas encourages social interaction, which is a critical aspect of the café's identity. By creating inviting spaces that draw people together, the Turf House Café aims to foster community engagement.

The architectural ideas surrounding the Turf House Café emphasize sustainability, a reflection of a growing awareness in contemporary architecture. By utilizing local materials and adhering to eco-conscious building practices, the project not only minimizes its ecological footprint but also serves as a model for future developments in the region. The careful selection of materials and design strategies highlights a commitment to environmental stewardship, making it a relevant case study in modern architecture.

This architectural project is a testament to the possibilities afforded by blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary design. The thoughtful integration of cultural references, sustainable materials, and functional design sets the stage for an enriching visitor experience. Those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements should explore the project presentation to gain a fuller understanding of its inherent architectural significance and the innovative ideas that underpin its creation.
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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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