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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Façades in a Nature-Integrated Retreat

Author:
Koralia Giori
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Façades in a Nature-Integrated Retreat

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles that seamlessly blend with the surrounding landscape and expansive glass façades that invite nature indoors, the design creates a tranquil retreat for guests seeking relaxation in the heart of Iceland’s breathtaking scenery.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while providing a visually appealing texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
The design features expansive glass facades that maximize natural light and views of the landscape.
04
A circular courtyard promotes community interaction while maintaining individual privacy.
05
The bent A-frame design adapts to local weather conditions, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional performance.
The Vogafjós Landslag Resort is an architectural project that embodies the essence of Iceland’s dramatic landscape while providing a unique and immersive experience for its guests. Set against a backdrop of striking geology and natural beauty, the resort reflects a thoughtful synthesis of design, function, and environment. The project is primarily designed to serve as a retreat, offering a space where visitors can unwind and connect with nature amid the serenity of the Icelandic wilderness.

At its core, the resort represents a commitment to integrating architecture with the landscape. The design draws inspiration from the surrounding topography, yielding a series of interconnected structures that flow harmoniously with their environment. This approach not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also fosters a deeper appreciation of the natural world among guests. The resort is envisioned as a communal space that encourages interaction, driving home the idea that connection to both nature and fellow guests is a vital aspect of the experience.

The functional layout of the resort is characterized by several key components that enhance its operational efficiency and visitor comfort. A circular courtyard serves as the heart of the project, creating a communal gathering space that facilitates social connections among guests. Surrounding this central area, individual suites are designed with privacy in mind, featuring carefully positioned windows that frame views of the exquisite landscape. This arrangement promotes a sense of belonging while maintaining an environment conducive to relaxation.

In terms of design, the project showcases a careful selection of materials that reinforce its commitment to sustainability and place-making. Wood plays a central role in the exterior cladding, chosen not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its ability to blend into the surroundings. The dark finish of the wood embodies the natural tones prevalent in the Icelandic environment, mirroring the organic elements found nearby. The use of concrete in certain structural elements provides robustness while offering a contemporary contrast to the warmth of the wood.

Glass is another critical element employed throughout the resort design. Large glass panels allow for ample sunlight to permeate the interior spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere while blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. This feature enhances the guest experience, encouraging occupants to engage with the ever-changing landscape outside. Furthermore, strategic landscaping with loose stone and artificial turf complements the architecture, tying the built environment more closely to the natural features of the site.

Unique design approaches are evident in the architectural form and elevation of the buildings. The varying heights of the structures add visual interest, creating a dynamic silhouette against the horizon. Cantilevered roofs not only serve practical purposes—such as providing shade and protection from Iceland’s unpredictable weather—but also contribute an aesthetic quality that balances form and function.

Overall, the Vogafjós Landslag Resort exemplifies how architecture can respond to context while providing a purposeful function. It bridges the gap between modern design and the natural world, offering a thoughtful invitation for visitors to engage deeply with their environment. By exploring architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs associated with this project, one can gain further insights into the innovative ideas that shaped its development. Discover the intricate details and carefully crafted concepts that define the Vogafjós Landslag Resort and enhance the visitor experience in this extraordinary setting.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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