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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facade Enhance Community Engagement in Sustainable Visitor Center

Authors:
Stefan Ahlblad, Hannah Ahlblad, Louise Wolfe
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facade Enhance Community Engagement in Sustainable Visitor Center

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass surfaces, the design integrates with Iceland's volcanic landscape to create a visitor center that emphasizes community engagement and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and protect against the elements.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to sustainable construction practices.
03
The bent A-frame design facilitates snow and rain runoff while maximizing interior space.
04
Large glass facades create visual connections to the surrounding landscape.
05
Outdoor recreational areas are integrated into the design for community use.
The Visitor Center project is an architectural endeavor situated in Iceland's volcanic landscape. Designed to accommodate tourists and provide educational resources about the region's unique ecology and culture, the structure integrates harmoniously with its surroundings. The design reflects a balanced relationship between nature and built form, promoting engagement with the landscape.

The Visitor Center serves multiple functions, including exhibition spaces, a cafeteria, and a gift shop. Key design features focus on the user experience, aiming to create a welcoming environment that encourages exploration and education about the local ecosystem. The building is organized to facilitate easy navigation, with carefully considered access points leading to various areas.

The architectural design utilizes dual gable roofs, a nod to traditional Icelandic structures, while also allowing for practical functions such as shedding snow and rain. A major point of differentiation is the extensive use of glass in the façade, which not only provides panoramic views of the surrounding nature but also maximizes natural light within the center. This blending of indoor and outdoor spaces fosters a greater connection with the environment, highlighting its significance in the visitor experience.

Material selection is another critical component of the design. The use of dark wood enhances the natural aesthetic, while robust metal roofing contributes to the building’s durability. Corrugated metal is also employed for its efficiency, reducing the construction impact on the landscape. These materials are chosen not just for their function but for their ability to reflect the cultural context of Icelandic architecture.

The interior design of the Visitor Center further emphasizes a warm, inviting atmosphere. Enclosed areas feature exposed wooden beams and natural materials to create a comfortable environment for visitors. Outdoor spaces include recreational areas for families, supporting community use and interaction with nature.

The architectural approach integrates sustainability principles with cultural sensitivity. Efficient energy practices, such as natural ventilation and the use of passive solar design, reduce the project’s environmental footprint. By considering local ecological conditions during the design process, the Visitor Center stands out as a responsible example of modern architecture that respects its geographical context.

For a deeper understanding of this architectural project, including detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for comprehensive insights into its innovative design ideas.
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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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