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Turf Roof Structures Integrated with Natural Light for Community Living

Author:
Katherine Graham
Turf Roof Structures Integrated with Natural Light for Community Living
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Employing turf roofs and extensive glass facades, this environmentally sensitive community hub merges with the Icelandic landscape to provide both communal and individual living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional turf roofing to enhance insulation and blend with the landscape.
02
Incorporates extensive glass elements to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding environment.
03
Features modular guest units designed for flexible placement across the site.
04
Integrates locally sourced materials, including regional wood and stone, to reduce environmental impact.
05
Emphasizes a community-focused design with a central hub for gatherings and social interactions.

### Overview

The architectural design "Miðstöð" is located in Iceland, strategically positioned to engage with the natural landscape and provide stunning views of Mývatn Lake and the Aurora Borealis. The project emphasizes a harmonious relationship between built structures and the environment, drawing inspiration from traditional Icelandic turf houses. The intent is to create a living experience that respects and enhances the surrounding landscape while allowing nature to remain the focal point.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The project consists of several mobile units and a central communal hub. The hub serves as the primary gathering space, designed in a circular form that encourages community interaction and efficient movement. Its layout promotes openness while maintaining a sense of comfort. The mobile guest units are characterized by a minimalist design and can be repositioned across the site, allowing for varied experiences of the landscape. Each unit features sweeping roofs that frame views of the terrain and night sky, and incorporates practical storage solutions for essentials, ensuring self-sufficiency in remote settings.

### Materiality and Interior Experience

The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic cohesion. Turf cladding provides insulation, while reinforced concrete ensures structural integrity. The use of local timber adds warmth, and expansive glass elements enhance natural light and outdoor engagement. Internally, spaces are characterized by earthy tones and gradient wallpapers that connect inhabitants with the natural surroundings. Natural light is optimized through strategically placed windows, and ambient lighting evokes the glow of the auroras. The furniture design is minimalistic, crafted from natural wood materials that resonate with the project's overarching theme of unity with the environment.

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Enter an open architecture
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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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