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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Enriches a Cultural Experience Cabin in Nordic Landscape
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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 Drawing inspiration from traditional Viking longhouses, the facility integrates historical references with modern architectural principles.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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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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Competition organisers

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.

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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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