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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Form a Sustainable Community Retreat

Authors:
James Williams Everett, Joseph Paul Robson
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Form a Sustainable Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels define a retreat in Iceland's Myvatn region, designed to promote community engagement through adaptable spaces and sustainable practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while minimizing environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for efficient snow load management in the Icelandic climate.
04
Versatile interior spaces can easily adapt for various community events and activities.
05
A communal garden promotes local produce growing and encourages sustainable practices among users.

Arnason's Retreat, located in the Myvatn region of Iceland, exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture that harmonizes with its environment. Designed as a communal space, the retreat balances functionality and aesthetic appeal, while also reflecting the cultural heritage of the area. The project comprises multiple structures, each tailored to serve distinct purposes, ranging from communal gathering spaces to private accommodations. Its layout encourages social interaction and supports a sense of community among residents and visitors.

Sustainable design practices are central to the project, with the selection of materials specifically focused on minimizing environmental impact. The use of locally sourced timber, natural stone, and glass not only enhances the visual quality but also promotes energy efficiency. Geothermal systems are integrated into the design to provide heating, emphasizing the site's natural resources. This commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of the project, from the choice of construction materials to energy-efficient systems.

Unique Architectural Approaches

Arnason's Retreat distinguishes itself through its integration of structure and landscape. The design features intersecting roof forms that reflect the surrounding topography, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. These roofs contribute to the building's energy efficiency by facilitating rainwater collection and managing snow loads effectively. Furthermore, they create dynamic interior spaces that connect to the natural surroundings through large windows and strategically placed viewing decks.

The retreat also focuses on creating versatile spaces that can adapt to various activities. Interior spaces are designed to be flexible, allowing for easy reconfiguration to meet the changing needs of users. This adaptability reflects a modern approach to community living and promotes the idea of shared use within the architectural framework.

Community-Driven Elements

Key to the retreat's design is its emphasis on community interaction. The inclusion of a communal garden and activity spaces fosters engagement among users, encouraging sustainable practices such as local gardening and food sharing. The layout is intentionally designed to facilitate movement and social exchange, with pathways linking different areas to create a cohesive environment.

In addition, the structure's aesthetic appeal lies in its simplicity and direct response to the surrounding landscape. Natural materials and earthy tones blend with the environment, reinforcing the connection between the architecture and its natural context. This aesthetic choice adds to the overall functionality of the retreat, while ensuring that the built environment does not overpower the inherent beauty of Myvatn.

For deeper insights into Arnason's Retreat, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, we invite you to explore the project's presentation further. These elements provide a detailed view of the innovative architectural ideas that define this unique project.

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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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