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Charred Wood Facade and Glass Elements Enveloping a Multi-Functional Outdoor Hub in Icelandic Mountains

Charred Wood Facade and Glass Elements Enveloping a Multi-Functional Outdoor Hub in Icelandic Mountains
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The use of charred wood and extensive glazing creates a visually striking, energy-efficient hub tailored for year-round outdoor recreation in the Icelandic mountains.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Extensive glazing maximizes natural light and offers panoramic mountain views.
03
The bent A-frame design integrates with the landscape's topography.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance sustainability and structural efficiency.
05
Communal spaces promote social interaction among outdoor enthusiasts.

## Project Overview
ULLRHUS is situated in the mountainous terrain of Iceland, serving as a year-round facility for outdoor enthusiasts. Its design aims to promote a connection between visitors and the surrounding natural landscape, facilitating engagement with both winter sports and summer activities.

### Architectural Composition
The layout consists of six interconnected units, centered around a main passage that functions as the entrance and exit. This configuration optimizes natural views and aligns with the landscape's undulating topography, mirroring the form of a skier navigating a slope. The parallel arrangement maximizes sunlight exposure and presents a dynamic visual narrative of Iceland's shifting seasons.

### Materiality in Design
The selection of materials was guided by principles of sustainability and functionality. Key materials include reinforced concrete for structural integrity, glass to enhance natural light and visual connectivity, natural wood finishes for warmth, and steel elements for support and modern aesthetic appeal. Together, these materials promote energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact.

### Design Outcomes and Functionality
The interior layout addresses diverse visitor needs through designated spaces for equipment storage, changing areas, relaxation zones, and sauna facilities. This arrangement encourages both individual comfort and community interaction. The design also allows for seasonal adaptability, catering to activities year-round, from summer hiking to winter skiing, thereby reflecting an understanding of climatic variations and their influence on recreation.

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Pavilion Atlas 2026: Rethinking Nations Through Architectural Storytelling

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Competition organisers

Buildner launches Pavilion Atlas 2026, a global architecture competition inviting designers to create conceptual pavilions that tell the story of a country. Participants are challenged to express cultural, social, environmental, or political identity through spatial storytelling, focusing on ideas rather than symbols or technical constraints. The competition offers a total prize fund of €20,000, with final registration open until September 16, 2026, and winners to be announced on December 8, 2026. All submissions will become part of a global design archive.

Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

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