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Charred Wood Cladding and Modular Design for Compact Eco-Friendly Living

Author:
Deanna Ament
Charred Wood Cladding and Modular Design for Compact Eco-Friendly Living
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Constructed with charred wood cladding and a modular layout, the dwelling offers adaptable eco-friendly living that harmonizes with the surrounding Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for increased durability and weather resistance.
02
Features a modular layout that allows for flexible spatial configurations.
03
Incorporates a rainwater collection system to enhance resource efficiency.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and insulation.
05
Designed with large windows to maximize natural light and connectivity to the landscape.

### Project Overview

Located in Iceland’s diverse terrains, the Studio Hut represents a contemporary architectural endeavor that draws inspiration from traditional Icelandic forms. Designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape, it features a modular structure defined by sharp angles and clean lines, promoting effective interaction with its environment while accommodating various functions.

### Spatial Strategy and Flexibility

The Studio Hut is developed as a versatile living space that adapts to the shifting Icelandic climate and user needs. The modular construction enables quick assembly and relocation, making it suitable for purposes ranging from artistic retreats to communal living. Thoughtfully integrated large windows enhance visual connectivity with the landscapes and ensure natural light circulates throughout the interior. The design prioritizes energy efficiency, with strategic orientations that promote natural ventilation and optimize solar gain.

### Material Selection

Material choices for the Studio Hut reflect both aesthetic and functional considerations, with an emphasis on durability and sustainability. The use of lightweight aluminum roofing offers weather resistance, while exterior wood cladding ensures a natural appearance that blends with the surroundings. Timber substructures provide structural integrity and exceptional thermal insulation, contributing to the building's energy efficiency. Incorporated sustainable elements, such as a rainwater collection system and solar panels, enhance the hut's self-sufficiency, reinforcing its commitment to ecological responsibility.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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