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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Cabins in Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Julia Mendes rogenski, Mateus Campos de araujo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Cabins in Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Emphasizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a seamless blend of contemporary living spaces that enhance communal experiences under the Northern Lights in Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins utilize charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance while creating a visually appealing texture.
02
The design incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity and sustainability in the harsh Icelandic climate.
03
Every cabin is oriented to maximize views of the Northern Lights, providing a unique nighttime experience for visitors.
04
The bent A-frame design not only reduces snow load but also integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, minimizing visual impact.
05
Public and private spaces are thoughtfully combined, fostering community interaction while maintaining individual retreat areas.
The architectural project focused on the Iceland Northern Lights Cabins and Co-living Pavilion exemplifies a thoughtful integration of design and its surrounding environment, reflecting a commitment to sustainability, community, and the unique natural beauty of Iceland. Set against a backdrop of dramatic landscapes, this project aims to offer visitors an immersive experience in one of the most stunning natural settings in the world while providing functional living spaces.

At its core, the project represents a harmonious relationship between human habitation and nature, emphasizing the importance of contextual design. The architectural design is centered around creating spaces that connect guests with the breathtaking views of the Northern Lights, effectively leveraging the natural phenomena typical to the region. The cabins are strategically located to ensure unobstructed views, merging the experience of domesticity with the grandeur of the natural world.

The primary function of this architectural project is to accommodate visitors in a manner that promotes relaxation, exploration, and community engagement. The design comprises individual cabins, each serving as a private retreat equipped with essential amenities while fostering a connection to the landscape. These cabins are complemented by a Co-living Pavilion—the heart of the project—which serves as a communal space for gatherings, activities, and social interactions. This pavilion plays a crucial role in enhancing the community aspect of the project, offering a welcoming environment where guests can come together to share experiences and appreciate the natural surroundings.

The architectural design embraces a unique aesthetic characterized by the use of natural materials, which reflect the local environment and climate. Wood is a predominant material, providing warmth and a sense of connection to nature, while large glass panels allow for maximizing views and natural light within the cabins. The careful inclusion of metal framing around these glass sections adds durability while retaining a contemporary feel. Stone elements are thoughtfully integrated, particularly in outdoor spaces, grounding the structures to the Icelandic landscape and emphasizing the building's relationship with its site.

Innovative design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in the way it responds to the local climate. The sloping roofs of the pavilion and cabins have been designed to manage snow accumulation efficiently, illustrating an understanding of environmental challenges while maintaining aesthetic integrity. Furthermore, the strategic placement of windows and open spaces is aimed at creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing residents to fully engage with the natural beauty that surrounds them.

Interior details of the cabins reflect a minimalist approach, prioritizing functionality while using natural materials to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The design avoids excessive ornamentation, instead letting the surrounding landscape serve as the primary visual element. Each cabin is equipped with features that enable comfort, such as wood-burning stoves, ensuring a cozy environment during the colder months.

The overall layout emphasizes accessibility and interaction with the site, with pedestrian pathways guiding guests through the terrain, connecting different spaces and experiences. The thoughtful distribution of amenities, such as the sauna and communal outdoor areas, reinforces the emphasis on community while allowing for moments of solitude in nature.

This architecture project not only serves its intended purpose but also engages with its context, offering unique insights into how design can cultivate a rich relationship between people and their environment. The continuous exploration of sustainable practices and materiality within this architectural endeavor underscores the potentials of thoughtful design in enhancing the overall experience of guests while being respectful of the natural landscape.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural project, it is worthwhile to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs provided in the project presentation. These elements illustrate the careful consideration and innovative architectural ideas that inform the design, revealing further insights into both the purpose and implementation of the project.
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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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