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Charred Wood Cladding and Panoramic Views in a Northern Retreat

Author:
Jeffrey Vogel
Charred Wood Cladding and Panoramic Views in a Northern Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood cladding to withstand the elements, this retreat offers unobstructed panoramic views of the northern lights while providing a serene accommodation experience in Iceland's unique landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity and energy efficiency.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame shape to create distinctive interior spaces and optimize views.
04
Incorporates extensive glazing to maximize natural light and connection to the landscape.
05
Utilizes eco-friendly materials sourced locally to minimize environmental impact.

# Architectural Report: Myvatn Northern Lights Rooms

## Project Overview

Located near Lake Myvatn in northern Iceland, the Myvatn Northern Lights Rooms are designed to respond to the unique geological and environmental characteristics of the area. This region is distinguished by its active lava fields, tranquil water bodies, and volcanic rock formations. The project focuses on integrating built structures with the natural landscape, promoting a sustainable approach to architecture while providing guests with an immersive experience.

## Spatial Configuration

The design adopts a decentralized layout, featuring a series of smaller units dispersed across expansive green fields. This arrangement minimizes environmental impact and fosters individual connections to nature, particularly during the aurora borealis displays. A network of interconnected pathways guides visitors through the site, allowing for both social interaction in communal spaces and personal privacy in designated rooms. Each unit is arranged to optimize views of the sky, enhancing the observational experience of the Northern Lights, while also preserving the surrounding landscape.

### Material Selection

A range of materials was carefully selected to align with the project’s ecological and aesthetic objectives. Reinforced concrete serves as the structural foundation, providing longevity and resilience. Untreated larch wood was chosen for exterior cladding, promoting an organic appearance that merges harmoniously with the landscape. Strategically placed glass elements facilitate natural light penetration and frame panoramic views of the environment. Insulation materials have been selected to ensure energy efficiency while minimizing ecological footprint. Collectively, these materials contribute to a cohesive sensory experience, echoing the region's natural textures and light conditions.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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