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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Timber Blend in Sustainable Trekking Lodges

Authors:
Omar Ali, Nimet Anwar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Timber Blend in Sustainable Trekking Lodges
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and locally sourced timber, these trekking lodges harmonize with Iceland's rugged landscapes while providing functional and sustainable lodging for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes space and reduces wind load.
04
Incorporates large view windows to connect occupants with the surrounding landscape.
05
Designed for flexibility, accommodating various group sizes and communal activities.

## Overview

The Trail Mix Trekking Cabins are situated in Iceland, designed to accommodate trekkers and enhance their experience within the rugged landscapes. The project explores the relationship between natural topography and architectural design, providing living spaces that resonate with the surrounding environment. The configuration of the cabins promotes not only private retreat but also communal interaction, aiming to cultivate ecological awareness among users while aligning with the principles of contemporary architecture.

## Spatial Strategy

The design emphasizes a flexible arrangement of cabin types to cater to varying group sizes and needs, fostering adaptability in social interactions. Private cabins offer seclusion and comfort, while collective cabins are intended for communal use, encouraging connections among guests. Additionally, external plinths serve as pathways and gathering spaces, integrating movement throughout the site and enhancing the overall user experience. The minimalist approach to spatial organization allows for simplicity while accommodating diverse activities through modular outdoor furniture arrangements.

### Material Composition

Material choices are integral to the cabins' aesthetic and functional performance. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, ensuring longevity and durability, while aluminum skin provides reflectivity and thermal efficiency. Locally sourced timber is incorporated in roofing to establish a meaningful connection to traditional Icelandic building practices, complementing the contemporary design. Large pivot windows enhance natural ventilation and offer expansive views of the surrounding landscape, while steel elements contribute to structural stability. These materials are selected to harmonize with the local ecology, emphasizing both the buildings' resilience and their visual integration into the environment.

## Sustainability

Sustainability is a key consideration throughout the design process, with features such as solar panels, effective insulation, and the use of locally sourced materials reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. This focus on eco-friendliness extends to the operational strategies of the cabins, promoting resource sharing among users. The design facilitates a sense of community by encouraging collective experiences and stories, reinforcing the notion of shared adventure in the natural landscape.

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