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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Blend Tradition and Community in Nordic Living

Authors:
Jane Lee, Eunhye Kim, Jingyu Maeng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Blend Tradition and Community in Nordic Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating a green roof and charred wooden shingles, this Nordic residence reinterprets traditional longhouse design to create a sustainable communal living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a green roof to enhance thermal insulation and biodiversity.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic integration.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and natural warmth.
04
Adopts a bent A-frame design to optimize space and natural light.
05
Emphasizes communal areas to foster social interaction within the living environment.
The Long House architectural project represents a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional Icelandic longhouses, integrating communal living with modern design principles. Positioned amidst Iceland's dramatic landscapes, the Long House functions as both a residential and communal space, fostering interaction and connectivity among its occupants. The design incorporates local materials and sustainable practices, ensuring that it is sensitive to its geographic and cultural context.

The project's architectural form is linear, characterized by a low profile and a sloping roof that mimics the contours of the surrounding terrain. This form allows for effective snow shedding and enhances thermal performance. The roof is designed to support a green covering of grass and soil, further improving insulation and establishing a visual connection with the landscape.

Material selection is critical to the Long House. The structure primarily utilizes timber for framing and interior finishes, providing a warm aesthetic. Concrete forms the foundation and structural components, ensuring longevity and stability. Large sections of glazing promote natural light and unobstructed views, capturing the essence of the surrounding environment. The use of steel in structural details contributes strength while maintaining a minimalist appearance.

Unique to the Long House is its design philosophy prioritizing community engagement. Communal areas are strategically placed at the center to encourage social gatherings, while private spaces like bedrooms are located along the edges to offer occupants a degree of seclusion. The layout promotes an inclusive living experience without sacrificing personal privacy.

Another noteworthy feature is the emphasis on sustainability. The design incorporates traditional Icelandic building techniques, adapting them for modern requirements. This approach reduces reliance on artificial heating by enhancing natural thermal efficiency. Additionally, the integration of expansive windows not only aids in energy efficiency but also emphasizes the visual connection with Iceland's unique phenomena, such as the Northern Lights.

In summary, the Long House stands out through its blended approach of historical reverence and contemporary architecture. The project's spatial organization and material choice enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. For a deeper understanding of the Long House and its architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, including architectural plans and sections, to appreciate the detailed design elements further.
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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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