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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create A Community Hub Embracing Local Culture

Authors:
Marcus Taylor, Lisa Shell, Martin Waters
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create A Community Hub Embracing Local Culture

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles alongside cross-laminated timber, the design melds seamlessly with Iceland's volcanic landscape to create a vibrant community hub that celebrates local culture and fosters connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles provides weather resistance while honoring traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while reducing the environmental footprint.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light penetration, creating a dynamic interior atmosphere.
04
Volcanic aggregate in the concrete reflects local geological features, reinforcing the site’s context.
05
Community spaces are intentionally designed for cultural engagement, promoting local artistry and interaction.
The Burnt Mountain project serves as a compelling example of contemporary architecture that deeply engages with its geographical and cultural context in Iceland. This design reflects an intersection of natural beauty and functional community space, facilitating a dialogue between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. The project encompasses three main components: a coffee shop, an exhibition space, and a coffee roastery, all thoughtfully designed to foster both social interaction and individual reflection.

Functionally, the Burnt Mountain project aims to create a communal hub where residents and visitors can gather, savor local flavors, and appreciate art and culture. Each component reinforces the project’s identity as a place for not only consumption but also connection and creativity. The coffee shop, located at the center, acts as the heart of the project, inviting passersby to pause and engage with the stimulating atmosphere. The exhibition space promotes cultural exchange and artistic expression, while the roastery adds an element of authenticity, showcasing local coffee production methods.

The architectural form is strikingly unique; the design employs conical shapes that are reminiscent of the volcanic landscape that characterizes Iceland. These forms create an organic yet structured aesthetic, as if they are part of the natural topography rather than added elements. Each cone appears to rise from the earth, enhancing the site's connection to its surroundings. The highest point, reaching nine meters, symbolizes a peak experience, eliciting wonder and curiosity from visitors.

Materiality plays a significant role in the overall design, with careful consideration given to both aesthetics and durability. Fire-blackened Suyaki, a distinctive Japanese cladding technique, not only reflects the local volcanic theme but also offers resilience against the elements. The incorporation of glulam and laminated wood introduces warmth to the interiors, fostering a comfortable environment for users. Concrete, crafted with local volcanic aggregate, adds strength to the structural framework while maintaining sustainability. The design also thoughtfully integrates glazed oculi, which serve as openings to invite natural light into the spaces, enhancing the environment's ambiance throughout the day.

The layout of the Burnt Mountain project demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of spatial organization. The site plan is designed to encourage flow and interaction, positioning the coffee shop centrally with easy access to the exhibition space and roastery. Architectural sections and plans reveal the intricacies of the conical structures, showcasing how they work both independently and as part of a cohesive ensemble. Each element contributes to an enhanced user experience, marrying function with the project's overarching narrative.

A defining feature of this architectural design is its commitment to sustainability and local context. By using locally sourced materials and techniques that reflect the environment, the project creates a sense of place that resonates with its users. The unique approach to community-centric design ensures that the architecture not only serves its functional purpose but also enriches the social fabric of the area.

As you explore the presentation of the Burnt Mountain project, you will find a wealth of architectural plans, sections, and design details that illustrate the thoughtfulness embedded in this undertaking. The project exemplifies how thoughtful architecture can forge connections among individuals and their environment while providing a platform for cultural enrichment. Delve into the unique architectural ideas and approaches that shape this project, and uncover the layers of meaning woven into its design narrative.
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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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