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Charred Wooden Shingles and Basalt Walls Shaping a Community Narrative Space

Author:
Wing chun Ng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Basalt Walls Shaping a Community Narrative Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and light-colored basalt walls, this community longhouse serves as a cultural hub for storytelling and cinematic experiences, rooted deeply in the local landscape and traditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced light-colored basalt, integrating the surrounding landscape.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural efficiency and aesthetic continuity.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide both durability and a connection to traditional Icelandic building techniques.
04
The design includes extensive glazing to maximize natural light and views of the environment.
05
Serves as a dynamic cultural hub dedicated to both oral storytelling and cinematic presentations.
The Hall of the Moving Sagas is an architectural project designed to serve as a community longhouse, emphasizing the significance of storytelling within Icelandic culture. This facility is dedicated to both assembly and promotion of Icelandic cinema, representing a fusion of traditional cultural expressions with contemporary design approaches. The building is strategically located to enhance its visibility within a dramatic landscape, engaging with prominent geographical features like Hverfjall and Hilðarfjall.

The primary function of the Hall is to act as a cultural hub, providing a versatile space for community gatherings, educational programs, and cinematic presentations. The design facilitates various activities, reinforcing the importance of storytelling as both an art form and a communal experience. The architectural layout is organized to maximize available space while ensuring comfort and accessibility for diverse user groups.

The structure adopts a longhouse form, reminiscent of traditional Icelandic architecture, promoting interaction and connection among its users. This design choice is significant as it aligns the building's function with historical practices in the region, emphasizing collective engagement through both oral and visual storytelling.

Sustainable practices inform the project's construction, primarily through the use of locally sourced materials. Key components include:
- Shou Sugi Ban Burnt Wood, providing durability and aesthetic appeal while reflecting traditional preservation techniques.
- Timber Rafters, which honor established construction methods and contribute to the longhouse's structural integrity.
- Light-Coloured Basalt Walls, showcasing local geological elements and enhancing thermal performance.
- Raised Timber Plank Boardwalks that extend the communal space into the surrounding landscape.
- Concrete Slab at Grade, ensuring stability and a seamless integration with the site.

The architectural design emphasizes unique characteristics that differentiate it from other similar projects. The use of large glazing areas helps create a strong visual connection between the building and its environment, inviting natural light and views of the landscape into the interior. The roof design, reminiscent of waves, mirrors the topography, establishing a dialogue with the natural forms surrounding the site.

Here, the emphasis on flexibility within the interior spatial configurations allows for adaptability in function, accommodating different types of events and gatherings. This innovative approach to space usage highlights the project's commitment to community engagement and interaction, facilitating an evolving narrative in line with its focus on storytelling.

The Hall of the Moving Sagas exemplifies a thoughtful integration of cultural heritage and sustainable architecture. Its design not only reflects local traditions but also incorporates modern architectural ideas to achieve a cohesive structure that enhances the community’s cultural narrative. Encouraging exploration of the project presentation will provide further insights into architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that underpin this significant addition to Iceland's architectural landscape.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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