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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Eco-Friendly Cabins at Lake Mývatn

Authors:
Jesse Ewart, Jason Tan, Tyler Harlen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Eco-Friendly Cabins at Lake Mývatn

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels create a sustainable architectural response to the unique landscape of Lake Mývatn, providing eco-conscious accommodations that integrate seamlessly with the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and aesthetic appeal while minimizing maintenance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength and thermal efficiency.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and offers panoramic views.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems are seamlessly integrated into the architectural form.
05
A circular layout fosters community interaction and connection to the landscape.

The Mývatn Lake Cabins project exemplifies a refined approach to architecture, situated along the shores of Lake Mývatn in Iceland. This design aims to provide comfortable accommodations while respecting the surrounding natural environment and local culture. The cabins serve as seasonal lodgings, attracting visitors who wish to engage with the unique landscape, renowned for its geothermal activity and scenic beauty.

The central design concept revolves around creating a series of interconnected cabins that facilitate both private retreat and communal interaction. Each cabin features elements that maximize the stunning views, while the overall layout encourages a sense of community among guests. The project underscores sustainability through its material selection and energy-efficient technologies, aligning with contemporary architectural practices focused on minimal environmental impact.

Unique Design Approaches This project distinguishes itself through its responsive design principles. The diverse architectural forms of the cabins respond to the terrain, creating a blend of linear and organic shapes that mimic the natural landscape. Each cabin features large, strategically placed windows to harness natural light and frame views of the surrounding scenery. The design incorporates a circular arrangement, promoting social engagement and interaction among guests.

Materials play a critical role in the project's identity. The use of locally sourced timber and natural stone not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also reduces transportation emissions, supporting the environmental ethos of the design. The roofs are designed to collect rainwater while providing durability against harsh weather conditions, further emphasizing the project’s commitment to sustainability.

Innovative Features The interior layouts are crafted to optimize space efficiency without sacrificing comfort. The open-plan design integrates kitchen and living spaces, encouraging a relaxed atmosphere. Skylights are incorporated to enhance light penetration and connect occupants with the sky, with particular attention to the viewing experience during the Northern Lights season. The subtle combination of modern solutions and traditional architectural elements reflects local heritage, creating a dialogue between the structure and its context.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the Mývatn Lake Cabins project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This exploration offers deeper insights into the architectural ideas that underpin the design and its unique relationship with the landscape.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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