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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Modularity in Remote Icelandic Cabins

Authors:
Dorothy Johns, Krystyna Ng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Modularity in Remote Icelandic Cabins

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a modular design, these cabins seamlessly integrate into Iceland's rugged landscape, providing essential shelter for outdoor trekkers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and natural fire resistance.
02
Designed with a flexible modular system to adapt to diverse terrain and user needs.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural performance and sustainability.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space and improves thermal efficiency.
05
Strategically positioned to offer unobstructed views of the surrounding glaciers and landscape.
The Iceland Trekking Cabins project presents an architectural solution designed to blend with the formidable Icelandic landscape while providing functional shelters for hikers and explorers. Strategically situated among glaciers and rugged terrain, the cabins are modular in nature, emphasizing adaptability to varied environmental conditions. The design reflects an understanding of both the geographic context and the experiential needs of users in remote areas.

The project aims to serve individuals embarking on trekking adventures in Iceland’s wilderness. Each cabin functions not only as a shelter but as a communal space that promotes social interaction among occupants. The layout incorporates central modules with communal hearth areas, encouraging connectivity while simultaneously offering private sleeping quarters.

Unique Design Approach: Modular Configuration
The modular approach is a defining characteristic of this project. The cabins are designed to be versatile, allowing for varied configurations that respond to different site conditions. This flexibility accommodates slopes, enhances views, and maximizes light exposure. The design prioritizes the relationship between the cabins and the surrounding landscape, creating an organic integration that minimizes the visual impact on the natural setting.

Material Selection and Sustainability
Considerations regarding materiality are paramount in the project. The emphasis is on utilizing local and sustainable materials that align with the ecological context of Iceland. Key materials likely include wood for structural elements, glass to facilitate natural lighting and panoramic views, as well as stone for foundation purposes. This thoughtful selection enhances the cabin's resilience to the harsh climate and supports sustainability, addressing both environmental concerns and user comfort.

The project design exemplifies a modern architectural response to outdoor recreational needs. The careful selection of form, function, and materiality highlights the potential for architecture to coexist harmoniously with nature.

For a more in-depth exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and specific architectural designs that illustrate the unique features of this project, interested readers are encouraged to review the detailed project presentation. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative ideas that drive the Iceland Trekking Cabins design.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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