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Charred Wood and Volcanic Concrete Blend in a Curvilinear Design for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Jun Nam, Denali Farrell, Johannah Deegan
Charred Wood and Volcanic Concrete Blend in a Curvilinear Design for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Emphasizing the use of charred wood and volcanic concrete, the design seamlessly blends a curvilinear form with expansive glass facades, creating a harmonious living space that connects residents to the surrounding Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates volcanic concrete for enhanced durability and local relevance.
02
Features a curvilinear layout that promotes natural flow between spaces.
03
Employs charred wood for visual impact and fire resistance.
04
Utilizes expansive glass facades to maximize views of the Icelandic landscape.
05
Incorporates communal areas that foster social interaction and connection.
Hellishús is a thoughtfully conceived architectural project that elegantly fuses contemporary design with Iceland's rich cultural heritage. This project draws inspiration from traditional turf houses, embodying a commitment to local materiality while establishing a spatial narrative that encourages interaction with the surrounding landscape. The architecture not only represents a physical structure but also serves as a bridge between the built environment and the natural world, weaving together contemporary living with historical context.

The principal function of Hellishús is to provide a welcoming space for both locals and visitors, establishing areas for communal gathering as well as private retreat. The architectural layout employs an innovative aggregation strategy, where individual spaces are arranged along a gentle curve. This design choice facilitates a natural flow throughout the building, encouraging movement and connection between different areas. Each room is designed to prioritize functionality while reflecting a distinct aspect of the Icelandic landscape, thereby enhancing the overall user experience.

At the heart of the project lies its structural composition. The first floor features communal areas, including a spacious living room, a dining area, and a kitchen, meticulously designed in a spiral arrangement. This layout not only supports social interaction but also fosters a sense of warmth and inclusion among users. Central to the dining space is a large table that allows for shared meals, reinforcing the importance of community and connection.

The second floor is dedicated to private guest accommodations, offering well-appointed rooms that prioritize comfort and privacy. Thoughtful window placements frame the breathtaking views of the natural surroundings, providing an immersive experience that connects guests to the landscape. Each room is carefully designed to create an inviting atmosphere, with consideration given to both aesthetics and functionality.

The material palette of Hellishús is grounded in sustainability, utilizing locally sourced materials such as Accoya wood, volcanic concrete, and expansive glass. The wooden structure not only serves as the backbone of the design but also reflects the vernacular architectural language of the region. The volcanic concrete, characterized by its unique texture and composition, enhances the sensory experience within the space, capturing light and shadow in a way that adds depth to the overall design. Glass facades play a crucial role in bridging the indoor spaces with the outdoor environment, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors while framing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the key unique design approaches of Hellishús is its integration with nature. The building harmoniously blends into the landscape, minimizing visual impact while enhancing the connection between the interior and exterior. The undulating roofline echoes the natural topography of the area, creating a seamless transition from the building to the surroundings. This design philosophy fosters both a sense of place and a commitment to environmental stewardship, as the project acknowledges its environmental context and responds appropriately.

Moreover, Hellishús embodies a cultural resonance that transcends mere functionality. The design thoughtfully respects Iceland’s architectural heritage, drawing upon traditional building methods while implementing modern construction techniques. This combination enriches the narrative of the space, making every corner of the building evoke a connection to local history and tradition.

In summary, Hellishús stands as a testament to thoughtful architectural planning and design. It is an exploration of how architecture can serve as a means for shared experience, connection, and cultural appreciation. Those interested in delving deeper into this project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain further insights into the innovative ideas and thoughtful implementations made in the creation of Hellishús.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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