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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Enriches A Cultural Experience Cabin in Nordic Landscape

Author:
Ricardo Garavito
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Enriches A Cultural Experience Cabin in Nordic Landscape

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and extensive glazing, the cabin uniquely merges sustainable materials with an adaptable space that enhances visitors' connection to the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and sustainability.
03
Features expansive glazing for optimized natural light and panoramic views of the landscape.
04
Includes outdoor viewing decks to encourage interaction with the Icelandic environment.
05
Employs geothermal heating to promote energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

## Overview

The Iceland 3D Show Cabin is situated in a remote area of Iceland, designed to function as a venue for immersive experiences that highlight the area's cultural and natural attributes. Drawing inspiration from traditional Viking longhouses, the facility integrates historical references with modern architectural principles. Its design seeks to connect users with the extraordinary landscape while emphasizing the importance of light and spatial awareness within the building.

### Spatial Strategy

The project is organized into a series of interconnected zones that promote visitor engagement and interaction. The main showroom, the focal point of the cabin, serves as a versatile space for exhibitions and presentations, featuring large glass panels that frame panoramic views and illuminate the interior. Outdoor viewing decks are strategically positioned to enhance the sensory experience of the surrounding landscape, facilitating social interaction among visitors. Additional service areas, including kitchens and restrooms, are discreetly integrated to maintain the building’s aesthetic integrity, while a rooftop terrace intensifies the connection to the sky, particularly valuable in an area known for its celestial phenomena.

### Material Consideration

The choice of materials reflects both traditional construction methods and contemporary durability needs. The structure employs locally sourced wood for framing and cladding, establishing an organic relationship with the environment. Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light and visual connections to the landscape, while steel is strategically utilized for the structure's integrity against harsh weather. Traditional finishes are incorporated to complement the overall design narrative, ensuring that the cabin resonates with its cultural context while prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainability through features such as geothermal heating.

### Landscape Integration

Thoughtful site grading and landscaping assist in harmonizing the cabin with its natural surroundings, framing the building without overwhelming it. Access pathways are designed to guide users toward key viewpoints, enhancing the journey to the facility while preserving the local habitat. This careful consideration of landscape integration ensures that the building remains respectful of its environment, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the Icelandic terrain.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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