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Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Glass Create Flexible Living in Iceland's Remote Landscape

Authors:
Jack (trung truc) Huynh, Kenneth Chen, Kathryn Larkin
Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Glass Create Flexible Living in Iceland's Remote Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the flexible modular units offer an immersive experience of Iceland's stunning landscape while providing adaptable accommodations for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while providing a unique aesthetic that blends with the landscape.
02
Modular units are designed to be transportable and reconfigurable, allowing for flexibility in accommodations.
03
Panoramic glass facades maximize natural light and views of Iceland's changing scenery, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for sustainable construction, offering structural strength and thermal efficiency.
05
The central hub serves as a communal gathering space, promoting social interaction among visitors in a remote setting.
The Nomadic Modules project emerges as a thoughtful exploration of architecture designed for flexible living, situated in the breathtaking vistas of Iceland’s remote landscape. This architectural endeavor represents a harmonious blend of mobility, sustainability, and community engagement. Functionally, it serves as a series of modular living units that cater to both individual and communal needs, allowing for seamless interaction with the surrounding environment while providing necessary amenities for visitors seeking a connection with nature.

At the core of this project lies the central hub, which functions as the main gathering space equipped with essential facilities such as kitchens, dining areas, and wellness features including a pool and sauna. The design prioritizes large glass panels that invite natural light into the space, fostering an atmosphere of openness and connection with the external landscape. These features not only enhance functionality but also create an inviting setting where guests can share experiences and build community.

Surrounding the central hub are transportable modular units, uniquely characterized by their adaptability and efficiency. These modules can be configured in a variety of arrangements, accommodating different group sizes and purposes—from cozy individual retreats to communal lounges. The folding design of these modules enables easy transportation and setup, aligning with the project’s philosophy of minimizing environmental impact during construction. The choice of materials further reflects a commitment to sustainability, incorporating timber structural frames for strength yet minimizing weight, alongside double-glazed windows that offer necessary insulation in the variable Icelandic climate.

One of the significant distinguishing aspects of the Nomadic Modules design is its emphasis on user experience and environmental sensitivity. Each module is equipped to provide a panoramic view of the dramatic Icelandic terrain, inviting guests to immerse themselves fully in the natural surroundings. This design choice highlights an intention to create spaces that not only serve functional purposes but also enhance the quality of life for users through interaction with the majestic outdoors.

The adaptability of the modules not only caters to changing user needs but also ensures the project remains relevant in a fluctuating tourism market. This architectural idea allows for scalability, enabling the addition of more units or modifications as demand evolves. Furthermore, the integration of renewable energy systems, such as geothermal heating and solar panels, underscores a commitment to sustainable practices that resonate with contemporary environmental challenges.

The Nomadic Modules project is remarkable for its innovative approach to architectural design, reflecting a keen understanding of the relationship between built environments and nature. Its commitment to sustainability, flexibility, and community engagement makes it a compelling case study in modern architecture. As you delve deeper into this project, consider exploring architectural plans, sections, and other architectural designs that detail its thoughtful approach and unique features. These insights will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the project and its significance in the realm of contemporary 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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