Curb appeal: cozy exterior, extensive windows, and a green roof? These adorable homes prove that a grassy canopy can make the perfect ceiling addition to any house. Green roofs are traditional in many Nordic countries throughout Europe, so much so that there is an annual competition to determine the best green roof project, which is hosted by the Scandinavian Green Roof Association (SGRA). These images feature some of the most stunning living roofs that can be found around the area.
These green coverings are not only an aesthetic trend however—the feature offers a variety of environmental and financial perks. The roofs absorb rain water, cool the home in the summer and retain heat in the winter, provide insulation, and can even last longer than your typical shingles. Like a cozy (but useful and sustainable) hobbit home, these green houses blend in with the surrounding nature and seem to be a magical cottage straight out of just about any fairy tale—take your pick!
SGRA currently has an open call for entries to their annual Green Roof Award, as they hope to further spread their vision for a future “where buildings and nature are combined– where green roofs and walls create living, livable and resilient cities.”
Above: Hofskirkja, Iceland
Thjorsardalur, Iceland
Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Mikladalur, Faroe Islands
Renndølsetra, Norway
Saksun Village, Streymoy, Faroe Islands
Norway
Torshavn, Faroe Islands
Church of Funnungur, Faroe Islands
Skalholt, Iceland
via [Fubiz]