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Charred Wood Enclaves Embracing Icelandic Landscapes for Modular Retreats

Author:
Danail Machev
Charred Wood Enclaves Embracing Icelandic Landscapes for Modular Retreats

Project in-detail

Crafted from carbonized wood and designed for modular efficiency, these units harmonize with the Icelandic landscape, providing an intimate retreat that merges comfort with sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes carbonized wood for exterior cladding, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates large glass panels for optimal natural lighting and scenic views.
03
Features a flexible modular layout allowing customizable configurations for guests.
04
Employs sheep wool insulation for improved thermal efficiency and sustainable practices.
05
Designed with communal pathways that encourage interaction among occupants.

The Dots Pods project is an architectural initiative situated near Lake Myvatn in Iceland, designed to create modular living spaces that connect occupants with the surrounding landscape. The project comprises multiple small units termed “pods,” intended for relaxation and immersion in nature without compromising comfort or functionality. The project reflects a commitment to sustainability and modern design principles.

Modular Design and Spatial Configuration
The modular nature of the Dots Pods allows for flexible arrangement and usage, enabling various configurations that can cater to solo visitors or larger groups. The design emphasizes interactions between occupants while ensuring privacy when desired. Each pod may contain amenities such as sleeping quarters, bathrooms, and basic kitchen facilities to facilitate self-sufficiency for guests.

What distinguishes this project is its integration of large glass surfaces that enhance natural light and offer optimal views of the Icelandic scenery, facilitating a continuous indoor-outdoor experience. The organic shapes and variations in pod sizes allow them to blend seamlessly into the natural topography. This organic approach is not merely aesthetic; it aids in weather resilience by managing wind forces effectively.

Sustainable Material Choices
The Dots Pods utilize a selection of carefully considered materials that align with sustainability goals. The main components include carbonized wood for exterior cladding, which allows for durability and reduces the impact of weathering, while the structural frames are constructed from wood to ensure low environmental impact. Glass not only maximizes visibility but also integrates energy-efficient features. Insulation materials like cellulose or sheep wool are employed to enhance thermal performance, optimizing energy use throughout the year.

By combining carbonized wood and efficient insulation technologies, the project minimizes its carbon footprint while providing adequate thermal comfort in varying climates. These material choices reflect an architectural design that prioritizes environmental integrity while giving structure to innovative living spaces.

Encouraging Exploration and Connection
The arrangement of the pods invites exploration and communal activities while maintaining a balance with solitude. Pathways interconnect the units and lead to designated viewpoints, allowing occupants to encounter the natural environment and seasonal phenomena, such as the Northern Lights, effectively enhancing the experience of place.

Overall, the Dots Pods project illustrates a careful balance between modern architectural practices and the intrinsic qualities of its location. The unique use of modular design, sustainability, and natural integration sets it apart and positions it as an exemplary model for future architectural endeavors.

For further insights and a deeper understanding of the Dots Pods project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation. This exploration will provide a comprehensive view of the architectural ideas underpinning the project.

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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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