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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Creating Harmony With Icelandic Landscapes

Authors:
Sinead Lim, Campbell Weddell
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Creating Harmony With Icelandic Landscapes

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades reflect the ephemeral beauty of Iceland’s Northern Lights while providing a communal space for visitors to connect with nature and each other.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a unique aesthetic that blends with the natural surroundings.
02
The use of cross-laminated timber panels promotes rapid construction and minimizes waste.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal views of the Northern Lights from various communal areas.
04
Integrated public spaces encourage interaction among visitors while fostering a sense of community within the landscape.
05
Locally sourced materials reflect the cultural heritage of Iceland, ensuring sustainability and regional authenticity.
The architectural design project "Future Ruins of the Northern Lights" presents a thoughtful exploration of the relationship between human-made structures and the natural environment of Iceland, specifically the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. This project embodies a vision of architecture that emphasizes harmony with nature while fostering community interaction and individual reflection.

At its core, the project establishes itself as a multifunctional space that serves various purposes, including a visitor center, accommodation units, public interaction spaces, and even stables for local horses. Each component works collectively to enhance the experience of visitors while encouraging a deeper appreciation for the surrounding landscape. The design thoughtfully integrates these elements to create a cohesive environment where people can engage not only with the architecture but also with the extraordinary phenomena of the natural world.

The visitor center is pivotal to the overall function of the project, serving as the main hub for orientation and information. It offers educational resources that invite guests to learn more about the cultural and natural significance of the Northern Lights. The accommodation blocks are strategically positioned to provide stunning views, allowing residents and travelers to bask in the beauty of the natural display right from their doorstep. This careful attention to placement underlines the project’s commitment to enhancing the connection between people and the landscape.

Public spaces play an essential role in fostering a sense of community within the project. These areas are designed to encourage social interaction and storytelling, serving as gathering spots for visitors and residents alike. By incorporating spaces for communal activities, the architecture promotes engagement with the environment and among individuals, reinforcing the importance of shared experiences in the context of a breathtaking setting.

Unique design approaches characterize the "Future Ruins of the Northern Lights." The architects embraced the notion of impermanence by creating forms that evoke the concept of ruins, subtly acknowledging the transience of human endeavors in the face of enduring natural beauty. This design philosophy cultivates a dialogue about the passage of time and the integration of the built environment within a constantly changing landscape. The use of sustainable materials underscores the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility, ensuring that the architecture respects and responds to the unique challenges of the Icelandic climate.

Material choices reflect both aesthetics and functionality, with an emphasis on local sourcing to further root the design in its geographical context. Reinforced concrete provides structural stability, while wood components add warmth and texture, creating a tactile contrast that enhances the overall experience of the space. Glass elements are utilized to capture views and allow natural light to permeate the interiors, fostering a connection between the inside and the outside.

The design outcome is not merely a series of structures but a landscape of experiences that invite exploration and engagement. Visitors encounter not only the architectural forms but also the beauty of the Northern Lights, an important cultural symbol that adds depth and meaning to the project. The interplay of architecture and nature creates a setting where individuals can reflect, socialize, and immerse themselves in the serene yet dynamic environment.

This project exemplifies a sophisticated understanding of how architecture can enhance human interaction with nature while acknowledging the delicate balance needed to ensure sustainability. The integration of functional spaces within a breathtaking landscape invites exploration and promotes a unique kinship with Iceland's cultural and natural heritage. To further understand the intricate details of this architectural endeavor, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, to gain a comprehensive view of this thoughtful approach to modern architecture.
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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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