Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wood Shingles and Prefabricated Panels Enhancing Sustainable Trekking Shelter Design

Authors:
Bartholomew Mangold, Ellert Hreinsson
Charred Wood Shingles and Prefabricated Panels Enhancing Sustainable Trekking Shelter Design
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed with charred wood shingles and prefabricated panels, the shelter seamlessly integrates into the Icelandic landscape, offering trekkers a sustainable refuge amid rugged terrain.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wood shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes prefabricated cross-laminated timber panels for efficient assembly and reduced construction waste.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize space and stability in uneven terrain.
04
Integrates geothermal heating to maintain comfortable interior temperatures in extreme weather.
05
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.

# Architectural Analysis Report: Iceland Trekking Cabin Project

## Overview

Located in Iceland's rugged terrain, the Iceland Trekking Cabin is an architectural design that merges traditional building techniques with contemporary ecological principles. The project is intended to provide a functional and sustainable refuge for outdoor enthusiasts, reflecting both the cultural heritage of the region and its natural landscape. The cabin's vertical typology minimizes its spatial footprint while adapting to the contours of the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Strategy

The cabin employs a vertically oriented design that accommodates a variety of user activities without compromising the integrity of the landscape. The stacked layout includes communal and private spaces, enabling functionality that supports both social interaction and individual privacy. Integrating elements inspired by volcanic basalt, the architecture resonates with local geology and emphasizes a strong connection to its surroundings.

### Material Considerations

Innovative material selection is a core aspect of the design, prioritizing durability and energy efficiency. Treated wood cladding enhances the aesthetics while offering resilience against the harsh Icelandic climate. Prefabricated wall panels, equipped with moisture barriers, improve insulation and adhere to sustainability goals. The turf roofing system, featuring a charcoal membrane for rainwater filtration, demonstrates commitment to environmental stewardship. Finally, structural components such as engineered steel stilt systems provide stability on uneven terrain while facilitating efficient transport and assembly on-site.

### User Experience

Interior layouts prioritize comfort and practicality, offering spaces for communal engagement and private rest. Designated areas for dining, relaxation, and utility ensure that the diverse needs of trekkers are met. Large windows facilitate visual connectivity with the breathtaking landscape, enhancing the overall experience for users by bringing the outdoor environment indoors. The combination of functional design and aesthetic consideration underscores the cabin’s role as a modern shelter within Iceland's distinctive context.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in