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Charred Wooden Shingles and Engineered Timber Panels Shape a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Jaden Mialszygrosz, Ken Catubig
Charred Wooden Shingles and Engineered Timber Panels Shape a Sustainable Community Hub
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Charred wooden shingles and engineered timber panels harmonize with the Mývatn landscape, creating a community center that emphasizes sustainability while fostering social interaction and educational opportunities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while promoting a natural aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
04
A green roof system integrates local plant species to support biodiversity.
05
Flexible interior layouts accommodate diverse community activities and gatherings.

The Iceland Lake Mývatn Community House serves as a functional and versatile space designed to foster community engagement while respecting the natural environment. Located in the Mývatn region, known for its geothermal activity and rich biodiversity, the structure integrates architectural design with the surrounding landscape to create a harmonious interaction between built and natural forms. This community center facilitates various activities, including public gatherings, educational programs, and workshops, addressing the social needs of the local population.

The building is characterized by its organic form, which echoes the local topography. The architectural design leverages significant amounts of glazing to ensure visual connections with the picturesque views of Lake Mývatn and the surrounding geological features. The extensive use of wood, engineered timber, and concrete highlights a focus on sustainable material choices. By selecting materials that promote insulation and energy efficiency, the project aims to reduce its environmental footprint while enhancing user experience.

Sustainable design principles are integral to the architecture of the Community House. The incorporation of a green roof system features local vegetation, providing ecological benefits and blending the building with its landscape. Natural ventilation systems optimize air quality within the structure, which is particularly important in a region that experiences substantial seasonal climate variations. The design prioritizes user comfort and well-being while promoting a low-impact development approach that aligns with community values.

A notable aspect of the project is its emphasis on community identity and cultural representation. The interior layout includes flexible spaces that can adapt to various functions, reflecting the diverse needs of the community. By creating multipurpose areas that encourage interaction, the design fosters social cohesion and inclusivity among residents and visitors alike. The architectural composition underscores a commitment to biophilic design, enhancing the connection between users and the natural surroundings, resulting in an environment conducive to gathering and collaboration.

The community house manifests the intersection of architecture, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. The design outcomes align with a broader vision for creating supportive community spaces that respect and reflect the unique characteristics of their surroundings. For those interested in further understanding this project, exploring elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas and practical considerations that define this community space.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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