Shedding Light on Garden Composting

July 2, 2010 by

Designed by Nicholas Groves-Raines of Groves-Raines Architects as an extension to the garden at Inverleith Terrace, Edinburgh, this sensually curving composting shed includes both a composting area and garden store.

The structure is constructed entirely from industrial concrete reinforcing bar using a technique similar to traditional willow weaving.

The shed, which was awarded The American Institute of Architects Excellence in Design Award, rises organically from the ground flowing upwards from its path edges, also constructed from woven re-bar.

Beyond the obvious ecological benefits the composting provides, the shed itself is eco-friendly.

The construction method minimizes impact on the ground and surrounding mature woodland since the vertical reinforcing rods are driven straight into the ground, eliminating the need for a traditional foundation.

Air and sunlight pass naturally through the weave, providing ventilation for composting while creating unique light patterns which change constantly throughout the day.

Further strengthening the connection between the structure and its wooded surroundings, there is also has a green roof  made from EPDM lined steel and planted with soft swaying grasses

hat tip to archdaily

2 Comments »

  1. Victoria Lyon said:

    This is absolutely beautiful as well as brilliant in it’s sustainable construction, It’s so rare to find such attention to design detail put into something as mundane as a composting site. Having beautiful composting sites like this everywhere would certainly increase their use though! Their next step should be to figure out how to make something similar but smaller, and ready to ship to urban (and suburban) gardeners.

    — July 4, 2010 @ 09:39

  2. Eco Mama said:

    Love this!
    xo
    Eco Mama

    — July 6, 2010 @ 22:48

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