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Walkable Green Roof Featuring Polished Concrete and Steel Framework in Iceland's Landscape

Author:
Michelle Yanga
Walkable Green Roof Featuring Polished Concrete and Steel Framework in Iceland's Landscape

Project in-detail

A walkable green roof offers panoramic views of Hverfjall, while a structural steel frame and polished concrete walls create a durable and inviting rest stop for visitors seeking comfort and information about the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Construction incorporates a walkable green roof for visitor engagement and landscape interaction.
02
Features panoramic views of Hverfjall from a centrally located mezzanine.
03
Polished concrete walls provide durability while enhancing the building's modern aesthetic.
04
Includes a dedicated Exhibit Area showcasing local geological features.
05
Designed as a comfortable rest stop, blending traditional Icelandic turf house elements with contemporary design.

The Modern Turf is located near Hverfjall, Iceland, serving as a rest stop for visitors who journey up and down the crater. It draws inspiration from traditional Icelandic turf houses while incorporating modern design elements. The building focuses on providing warmth and comfort, enhancing the experience for those who come to explore the area.

Design Concept
The main idea behind the design is to create a strong connection between the building and the landscape. A key feature is the walkable green roof, which offers visitors panoramic views of Hverfjall. This aspect not only looks appealing but also supports environmental considerations by blending the structure into its surroundings.

Materials and Structure
A structural steel frame and polished concrete walls form the main components of the building. These materials were chosen for their strength and ability to withstand the harsh climate of Iceland. The polished finish of the concrete creates a contrast with traditional designs, giving the building a contemporary look while ensuring it remains durable and functional.

Interior Layout
Inside, the layout is designed to enhance the visitor experience. A mezzanine level provides unobstructed views, encouraging guests to relax and take in their surroundings. The café space allows for serving food and drinks, fostering a sense of community among visitors. Warm wooden paneling and thoughtful lighting create an inviting atmosphere, balancing the robust nature of the exterior with comfort inside.

Visitor Engagement
An important element of the design is how it engages with its visitors. The facility includes a Visitor's Information Center and an Exhibit Area that showcases local geological features. This educational component invites guests to learn more about the area while they are there. By encouraging exploration and accessibility, the design promotes a deeper appreciation for Hverfjall and its natural beauty.

The green roof not only serves as a viewing platform but also allows interaction with the landscape, emphasizing the connection between architecture and the environment.

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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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