Houses with Living Roofs

Apparently, green is the new black. Check out these gorgeous houses with living roofs, thanks to the mad geniuses at Bored Panda. How’d they ever get approval from the homeowner’s association?

“Scandinavians are serious about their green roofs. They’ve had them for a while now and it doesn’t look like they’re going anywhere. They even have a competition every year to determine the best green roof project in Scandinavia by the Scandinavian Green Roof Association! But there is a reason why Scandinavians like these green roofs so much… They are not only a beautiful feature for a house, but they also offer numerous social, environmental and financial benefits. They absorb rainwater, reduce winter heating costs, reduce summer air-conditioning costs, provide insulation, and are long lasting – just to name a few.”

#1 Hofskirkja, Iceland

#2 Thjorsardalur, Iceland

#3 Skalholt, Iceland

#4 Vatnajökull Nationalpark, Iceland

#5 Renndølsetra, Norway

#6 Norway

#7 Saksun Village, Streymoy, Faroe Islands

#8 Torshavn, Faroe Islands

#9 Church Of Funningur, Faroe Islands

#10 Mikladalur, Faroe Islands

Stunning Building Designs That Integrate Trees

From the mad geniuses at Bored Panda.

We can either work with nature, or work against it. On this spectrum, these architects have decided to find a middle ground: instead of chopping down trees and building their houses, the trees are incorporated as a part of the new structures.

Deforestation has a significant environmental impact. Many studies suggest that is a contributor to global warming; it impacts the water cycle by reducing the amount of water in the soil and air; it contributes to soil loss; and it results in a decline in biodiversity.

Urbanization makes up only a small part of global deforestation, but it is important for its psychological impact. Will we cut down the forests to build our homes, or will be try and incorporate our buildings into the surrounding environment? How can we change our living habits to be more mindful of nature?

These designs showcase tree-human cohabitation. Do you have any pictures of nature an architecture combined? Post them or vote on your favorite below!

#1 Kindergarten Around The Tree

#2 The Tree Was There First

#3 The Tea House

#4 Casa Vogue

#5 Niavaran Residential Complex

#6 Lakeview Residence

#7 Hole

#8 Kook Osteria & Pizzeria

#9 Tree Hugger

#10 Cylindrical Glass House Built Around A Tree

#11 Tree Apartments