Since returning from her family trip to Scandinavia this summer, Jenn has become enamored with the design, sustainability, practicality, and the overall magic of the living roof. Her journey through Denmark and Sweden was marked with homes, both modern and ancient, topped with a lush carpet of grass and wildflowers. She learned that the Viking communities layered birch bark and soil atop their homes, providing insulation and blending seamlessly into the rugged landscape. Beyond the marked beauty, the sod roofs were incredibly functional. Upon returning home, Jenn has looked for ways to embrace sod roofs in the contemporary design of mountain homes. Grasses and wildflowers are indigenous to the region. Aesthetically and ecologically, it makes sense that this living tapestry would blend effortlessly and actually benefit the surrounding wilderness.
- Insulation: Sod roofs excel in thermal insulation, keeping mountain homes warm during icy winters and cool during sun-drenched summers. It’s nature’s very own thermostat.
- Weather: These roofs stand strong against the harshest weather. Snow, wind, and rain are no match for a well-built sod roof, making it perfect for the unpredictable mountain climate.
- Fire Resistance: In areas prone to wildfires, the moisture in sod roofs provides a natural fire deterrent, offering peace of mind and added safety.
- Eco-Friendly: Sod roofs absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and preventing soil erosion – a crucial benefit in mountainous terrains.
- Aesthetics: They blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, creating a harmonious and visually stunning abode.
- Cultural Connection: Embracing sod roofs can also mean honoring traditional building methods, connecting your home to a rich heritage.
Some Local Inspiration:
To truly appreciate the beauty and practicality of sod roofs on mountain homes, a picture is worth a thousand words. For a visual feast, take a look at these two local homes:
This property is located in Alpine Meadows. The home’s grassy crown is at once architectural, functional and blends magnificently into the natural environment.
Photo credit: @architectural.desiign
This home was built by NSM Architects within the resort community of Lahontan. The living roof is accessed from the second story of the home, allowing it to serve not only as a sustainable roof, but a harmonious and practical garden.
Article Authored by Jennifer Pearsall
