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Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Harmony in Guest Accommodations

Authors:
William song Yuan, Emerson Walker
Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Harmony in Guest Accommodations

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design harmonizes with its geothermal surroundings to create a guest accommodation that offers both privacy and a connection to Iceland's natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that complements the natural topography.
04
Includes communal spaces inspired by traditional Icelandic longhouses.
05
Strategically placed large windows frame views of the Northern Lights.
The architectural design project, INLR, is located in Iceland and draws inspiration from the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. This design integrates the surrounding landscape, reinforcing the connection between people and nature. The project serves multiple functions, including guest accommodation, communal spaces, and environmental engagement.

The core architectural concept revolves around sustainability and the reflection of the Icelandic environment. By employing local materials, the design emphasizes both durability and aesthetic coherence with the natural surroundings. The structure features a mixture of dark timber, concrete, glass, and stone, merging traditional Icelandic architectural elements with contemporary design techniques.

Unique Architectural Integration

A defining aspect of the INLR project is its integration with the topography. The elongated roofs and angular forms are designed to mimic natural land contours, minimizing visual disruption. Large windows frame scenic views, allowing occupants to experience the drama of the Northern Lights from inside the structure. The incorporation of a Longhouse as a communal space reinforces the idea of collective living, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.

The guest cabins are strategically located to provide privacy while enhancing occupants' connection to the landscape. Their modular design allows flexibility in arrangement, making them adaptable to the varying needs of the site. The smaller sanctuaries feature circular forms, creating intimate spaces for reflection and observation.

Focus on User Experience

User experience is a central theme in this architectural project. The design prioritizes multi-sensory engagement through the use of sound, light, and material textures. Water features are integrated to provide calming auditory experiences, reflecting the natural environment. Terraces and outdoor spaces encourage interaction and appreciation of the surrounding landscape, extending the living area beyond the confines of the building.

The project employs an effective use of local materials, such as dark timber and stone, reflecting Iceland's cultural heritage while fulfilling modern needs for sustainability and resilience. The architectural strategy is both functional and responsive, ensuring that the design serves its purpose while respecting its ecological context.

For more comprehensive insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural ideas that define this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail. The interplay of traditional and contemporary design elements offers a thorough understanding of how the INLR project responds to its environment and intended use.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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