SESSELJUHUS ECO HOUSE
by Jill Fehrenbacher
The S’lheimar eco village that I visited while on holiday in Iceland was full of interesting takes on environmentally concious architecture. Most of the buildings have sod roofs, which provide extremely good insulation in Iceland’s cold windy climate. Architecture in the village places heavy emphasis on local building materials and geothermal power. From a design point of view, the most interesting building in Solheimer is the village center: Sesseljuhus
The Sesseljuhus building is the center of S?lheimar, both physically and psychologically. The building functions as a resource and information center on Solheimer and environmental living. Designed by Icelandic archiecture firm ASK, Seseljuhus makes extensive use of glass, reflecting the stark icelandic landscape.
The outdoor cladding is made from driftwood originating in Siberia, carried to Iceland by the ocean’s currents. The insulation of the walls and floors is made of natural sheep’s wool while the roof is insulated with paper. All energy used in the building originates from environmentally sustainable sources. Solar and hydro power supply the building with electricity in addition to a unique generator that produces electricity from the temperature difference existing between hot and cold water. The house is heated using geothermal hot water from S?lheimar’s own borehole.
For more information about ASK, check out the firm’s website >
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