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Charred Wood Cladding and Sustainable Design in a Trekking Cabin Overlooking Icelandic Landscapes

Authors:
Kenneth Cheston, Kyle Baron
Charred Wood Cladding and Sustainable Design in a Trekking Cabin Overlooking Icelandic Landscapes

Project in-detail

With its charred wood cladding and strategic solar panel integration, this trekking cabin offers a sustainable retreat that seamlessly harmonizes with the raw beauty of the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The trekking cabin features charred wood cladding, providing natural fire resistance and enhancing durability against harsh weather.
02
Large sections of polycarbonate paneling allow for abundant natural light while maintaining the thermal efficiency of the structure.
03
The design incorporates solar panels strategically placed for maximum sunlight exposure throughout all seasons.
04
A sloping roof design effectively manages snow accumulation, reflecting a deep understanding of Iceland's climate challenges.
05
The interior layout promotes communal living with ample shared spaces, fostering social interaction among guests.
The Alpine Beacon is an architectural project designed as a trekking cabin nestled within the rugged landscapes of Iceland. This structure represents not just a physical refuge for adventurers but also an embodiment of the relationship between architecture and nature. Functionality is at the core of the design, catering to hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a temporary sanctuary amid the dramatic Icelandic scenery.

The project features a carefully considered spatial organization that promotes both communal interaction and personal retreat. The first floor includes vital shared spaces, such as a welcoming kitchen and a living room, where occupants can gather, share experiences, and plan their excursions. In addition to these communal areas, a vestibule ensures that trekkers can clean up after their outdoor activities, reinforcing the project's practical approach to design. The second floor hosts bunk rooms and a mezzanine, maximizing available space and providing varying perspectives of the surrounding environment.

A key aspect of The Alpine Beacon is its innovative use of materials. The cabin incorporates charred wood cladding, which not only provides a natural aesthetic but also enhances durability against Iceland’s harsh weather conditions. Alongside this, polycarbonate paneling offers translucency, allowing light to filter into the interiors while maintaining privacy. The use of a robust steel framework adds structural integrity, essential for enduring the climatic challenges prevalent in the region. Large glass windows are strategically integrated to frame expansive views of the landscape, fostering a deep connection to nature and emphasizing the beauty of the site.

The architectural design demonstrates a unique geometric approach that echoes the surrounding mountain ridges. The sloping roofs are not merely a stylistic choice; they effectively manage snow accumulation, showcasing a practical response to environmental demands. This thoughtful arrangement illustrates the project's commitment to site-sensitive design while ensuring that it melds seamlessly with the natural topography.

Sustainability and energy efficiency are paramount in The Alpine Beacon's architecture. Solar panels are optimized across the structure, ensuring effective energy capture throughout varying seasons, a crucial consideration in a remote setting. This sustainable approach further emphasizes the project's role as a modern shelter that caters to the needs of its users without compromising environmental responsibility.

The interior spaces of The Alpine Beacon are designed to be inviting and practical. High ceilings and extensive use of glass create an open and airy environment, enhancing natural ventilation and providing spectacular views of the external landscape. The choice of finishing materials, primarily wood and lighter tones, adds warmth and comfort, cultivating a cozy atmosphere ideal for relaxation after a day of outdoor activity.

Outdoor spaces are equally emphasized, with terraced areas that encourage engagement with the surrounding environment. These external features allow occupants to enjoy the cabin’s amenities while immersed in Iceland's pristine landscape, fostering a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience that enriches their stay.

In summary, The Alpine Beacon serves as a model of contemporary architecture that deeply respects its context. It embodies principles of sustainable design and harmonization with nature, ensuring that it meets the functional needs of its users while remaining an integral part of the Icelandic wilderness. For those interested in exploring architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that shaped this project, further details await in the complete presentation of The Alpine Beacon.
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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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