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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Retreat in Norwegian Wilderness

Authors:
Yi Jiang, Xinran Shen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Retreat in Norwegian Wilderness

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a sustainable retreat that harmonizes with the Norwegian wilderness and enhances guest experiences in both winter and summer.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to maximize structural efficiency and aesthetic impact.
02
Incorporates locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainable construction practices.
04
Provides panoramic views of the Northern Lights through strategically placed large windows.
05
Integrates geothermal heating and cooling systems to optimize energy efficiency throughout the year.

## Project Overview

Located within a snowy landscape, the Nordic Lodge is designed as a recreational hub for outdoor enthusiasts, exemplifying modern Nordic design principles. The facility's triangular form, characterized by interconnected bars, creates a communal courtyard that encourages social interaction among visitors while framing unobstructed views of the Northern Lights and surrounding wilderness.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The architectural layout emphasizes community bonding and personal relaxation. The lodge's strategic orientation optimizes visibility of the natural surroundings and establishes distinct spaces for various activities, such as skiing, resting, and dining. The ground floor hosts essential amenities, including an information point, rental services, and a café, all designed with large windows to maximize natural light and provide seamless access to ski slopes. The upper level features additional communal areas and private rooms, complemented by a viewing deck that enhances guest engagement with the landscape, especially during the Aurora Borealis.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The design incorporates carefully chosen materials that enhance both aesthetics and environmental sustainability. Wood framing is utilized throughout, providing warmth to the interior while maintaining structural integrity. Metal framing contributes to durability, ensuring resilience against harsh weather conditions. The incorporation of turf roof layers serves both an insulating function and a visual connection to the natural environment. Further emphasizing energy efficiency, the building features geothermal heating and cooling systems that leverage the region's resources. Overall, the use of locally sourced materials reinforces the lodge's commitment to sustainability and respects the cultural heritage of the area.

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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

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