GEODESIC TURF HOUSE
Competition entry - "The purpose of the Iceland Trekking Cabins architecture competition is to develop an accommodation unit that can be situated at any location across Iceland’s various
trekking trails. We are therefore asking participants to submit innovative and exciting proposals for a trekking cabin that is in keeping with the country’s unique style of architecture. The Iceland Trekking Cabins need to be adaptable enough in order to be constructed at any location across Iceland, taking into account the country’s extreme weather conditions that vary greatly throughout the year.
Traditional Icelandic turf houses used layers of turf, an abundant natural resource, to provide insulation, shed water, and as structural components. However, building and maintaining traditional turf houses was labor intensive.
The Geodesic Turf House utilizes an efficient structure, lightweight and easily transportable materials, and an innovative construction process to address issues that traditional turf houses faced. The dome-shaped living quarters are efficiently heated, and the five wings provide different services for weary travelers.
Submitted to the Iceland Trekking Competition.
Loft plan
Ground floor plan
The wings address functions such water collection and distribution system, renewable energy, and turf harvesting and curing. The envelope utlizes the insulative and water-shedding capabilities of turf to protect the house against the Icelandic climate.
The Turf House will be constructed in remote locations that are inaccessible by most vehicles. An inflatable dome acts as a frame to correctly place the lightweight steel tubes and provides temporary shelter for workers during assembly. A turf collection system expedites the harvesting process and ensures proper sizing of turf pieces. Also, it allows individual sections to be replaced rather than replacing entire walls like in traditional turf structures.