garden composting shed by groves-raines architects
all images courtesy groves-raines architects


a garden composting shed in scotland, designed by nicholas groves-raines of
groves-raines architects (GRA). has won an american institute of architects (AIA)
excellence in design award for 2010.



detail of the woven bars


conceived as an extension to the garden at inverleith terrace, edinburgh (a detached
house remodelled by GRA in 2003) the organic form embraces a 5 tonne boulder
and provides a point of interest to both garden visitors and walkers alike on the adjacent
water of leith walkway to the north. 


the structure which serves as a composting area and garden store is made entirely
from industrial concrete reinforcing bar and is constructed using a technique similar
to traditional willow weaving. it rises from the ground flowing upwards from the path edges,
also constructed from woven re-bar. the construction method minimises any impact on
the ground and surrounding mature woodland as the vertical reinforcing rods are driven
straight into the ground rather than using traditional foundations. air and sunlight pass
naturally through the structure providing ventilation for composting while creating light
patterns which change constantly throughout the day. 



a full view of the garden composting shed


the green roof is made from EPDM (rubber) lined steel and planted with soft grass
which further strengthens the connection with the wooded context.



detail



detail from the inside



the tubes weaved together




first stage of construction - tubes are bent around poles



tubes being shaped



the structure is put in to place



axonometric view


detail



axonometric view



floor plan



west elevation




site plan



initial sketch of composting shed



initial sketch of composting shed