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Turf Roofs and Cross-Laminated Timber Units Integrate Community and Nature

Authors:
Kinga Grzybowska, Michał Hondo, Vera Swahn, Erpinio Labrozzi
Turf Roofs and Cross-Laminated Timber Units Integrate Community and Nature

Project in-detail

Utilizing turf roofs and cross-laminated timber, the design seamlessly integrates with the landscape while fostering community interaction through a series of modular guest cabins.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes turf roofs for enhanced insulation and integration with the landscape.
02
Features a circular layout to promote community interaction among guests.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Modular cabins offer customizable configurations to suit individual needs.
05
Geothermal heating systems reduce environmental impact and improve energy efficiency.

"The Circle" is an architectural project located in Iceland that integrates contemporary design with traditional Icelandic building practices. Designed with a focus on community and sustainability, this project seeks to provide a unique experience within the Icelandic landscape. The design emphasizes circular forms, which promote connection and sociability among visitors while maintaining an ecological focus in terms of material selection and energy use.

The function of "The Circle" encompasses both accommodation and communal interaction. The central area serves as a gathering point for guests, while a series of guest cabins radiate outward, each offering distinctive views and individual experiences. The layout is intentionally designed to foster community, providing spaces for cooking, dining, and socializing, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The use of materials is significant in this project. Predominantly, sustainable wood is used for structural elements, alongside turf for insulation and traditional aesthetic resonance. Extensive glass windows provide natural lighting and views of the landscape, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. By utilizing local materials and methods, "The Circle" not only minimizes its ecological footprint but also integrates seamlessly into the site’s surroundings.

Emphasizing unique design approaches, "The Circle" stands out for several reasons. The integration of turf in roof construction echoes traditional Icelandic building techniques, highlighting cultural continuity while enhancing thermal performance. The central communal fireplace encourages social interaction among visitors, reinforcing the project’s focus on community. Additionally, the orientation of guest cabins is strategically arranged to maximize viewing opportunities of the northern lights, offering a unique feature that elevates the overall visitor experience.

Sustainability is a key component of this architectural project. The implementation of geothermal heating systems, rainwater harvesting, and solar technologies demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact. The careful selection of materials, alignment with local traditions, and thoughtful design work together to create an ecologically sensitive and culturally rich environment.

For those looking to gain deeper insights into "The Circle," further exploration of its architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas is encouraged. Reviewing these aspects will provide a comprehensive understanding of how this project successfully marries modern architectural practices with sustainable initiatives and cultural heritage.

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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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