Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Harmonize With Arctic Landscapes in a Guesthouse Retreat

Author:
Wilan Rossouw
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Harmonize With Arctic Landscapes in a Guesthouse Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, this guesthouse seamlessly merges with the Arctic landscape while providing a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and a distinct aesthetic.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes snow shedding in Arctic conditions.
04
Large glass facades are strategically oriented to maximize views of the northern lights.
05
Designed with communal and private spaces in mind, promoting both social interaction and individual retreat.
The Vogáf Jós Guesthouse is a carefully designed architectural project that exemplifies a thoughtful approach to integrating built spaces within their natural landscape. Situated in a remote, icy environment, this guesthouse serves as both a place for visitors to stay and a representation of contemporary architecture that respects its geographical setting. The project signifies an effort to harmonize human habitation with the surrounding wilderness, promoting a sense of tranquility and a connection to nature.

Functionally, the guesthouse is designed to accommodate guests seeking both comfort and a unique experiential connection to the natural world. It features communal areas for socializing, dining, and relaxation, as well as private quarters that provide solitude and privacy. The design thoughtfully considers guest movement, creating spaces that are not only functional but also evocative of the beauty found in the external environment.

Key elements of this project include a robust yet minimalist architectural form that mirrors the topography of the area. The layout of the guesthouse allows for both nucleated communal spaces and intimate private rooms, promoting a balance between social engagement and individual retreat. The strategic placement of large glass facades maximizes natural light and captures expansive views of the landscape, particularly the northern lights, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the design of the Vogáf Jós Guesthouse. The architects have chosen a palette that includes concrete, glass, wood, and local stone, ensuring the building is not only durable but also aesthetically in tune with its environment. Concrete provides structural longevity, while glass elements create transparency and connect indoor spaces with outdoor vistas. The use of wood introduces warmth to the interiors, fostering a welcoming atmosphere, and local stone grounds the structure in its geographical context.

The unique design approaches employed in this project emphasize sustainability and a deep respect for the local environment. Energy-efficient systems and materials are incorporated to minimize the ecological footprint, demonstrating an understanding of the need for sustainable architecture in contemporary design. The guesthouse also reflects cultural nuances through its architecture, with design elements that pay homage to local traditions, thereby enriching the visitor experience.

Overall, the Vogáf Jós Guesthouse not only provides accommodation but also invites a deeper reflection on the relationship between architecture and nature. It encourages visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape, offering an experience that is both immersive and introspective. For those interested in exploring the architectural details further, including architectural plans, sections, and profound design ideas, reviewing the project presentation offers valuable insights into this exemplary integration of architecture and environment.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy