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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Cabins Offering Elevated Stargazing Experiences

Author:
Nathalie Groot kormelink
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Cabins Offering Elevated Stargazing Experiences

Project in-detail

Elevated cabins crafted with charred wooden shingles and sustainable timber create a striking invitation to stargaze in the serene landscape of Iceland, designed for a low-impact retreat experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins are designed with a deliberate tilt to enhance views of the northern night sky.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to both structural integrity and sustainable construction.
04
Each cabin layout is customizable to accommodate varying group sizes and needs.
05
A central communal hub fosters social interaction while maintaining privacy for individual cabins.
The architectural project known as "Aiming for the Sky" represents a thoughtful exploration into sustainable living and a deep appreciation for the natural environment. Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Iceland, this project is designed for low-impact accommodation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the breathtaking surroundings while contributing to environmental preservation. The design embodies a philosophy that deeply respects the land and encourages occupants to engage with the sky above, fostering a unique interaction between the built environment and its natural context.

Functionally, the project consists of a series of cabins and a communal main building, strategically designed to provide comfortable living spaces while minimizing the ecological footprint. Each cabin serves as a retreat for guests, with flexible layouts that accommodate both individuals and small groups. The architectural design emphasizes privacy while creating a tactile relationship with the landscape, encouraging occupants to connect with their surroundings. The orientation of the cabins is particularly notable; they are deliberately tilted to maximize views of the night sky, making the most of Iceland's renowned dark skies and celestial displays.

Significant attention has been paid to materiality within the project. The primary materials include sustainable timber, concrete blocks, glass, wooden slats, and natural insulation materials. Timber is utilized for the cabin walls and structural components, providing warmth and a natural aesthetic. Concrete blocks serve as a stable foundation, capable of withstanding Iceland’s challenging weather conditions. Large windows made of glass are integrated into the design to flood the interiors with natural light and create a seamless visual connection with the outside world. Furthermore, the use of wooden slats as exterior screens effectively manages temperature and sunlight, enhancing comfort while maintaining privacy.

A unique aspect of "Aiming for the Sky" is its innovative approach to landscape integration. Each cabin is thoughtfully positioned to ensure minimal visual impact on the terrain, and careful consideration was given to maintaining natural vegetation surrounding the units. This aspect not only preserves the existing ecosystem but also enhances the locational identity of the project. Moreover, the central main building, located on the site’s highest point, serves as a communal hub, offering shared amenities including a kitchen, dining space, and wellness facilities. This encourages social interaction among guests while maintaining the individual character of each cabin.

Sustainability is paramount in the design, and several features have been integrated to support this goal. Solar panels are incorporated to provide renewable energy, while designs allow for natural ventilation, capitalizing on Iceland's wind patterns. Water management systems are designed to handle waste and water usage efficiently, ensuring that the natural environment remains undisturbed. These considerations reflect a commitment to ecological responsibility, allowing occupants to benefit from modern comforts while engaging with the natural world.

The project also explores multifunctional spaces within the cabins, merging living areas with observation platforms. This adaptability supports various activities, from relaxation to contemplation, providing a versatile environment for guests. The overall design fosters a sense of tranquility, inviting residents to truly unwind and appreciate the striking natural beauty.

As this architectural project continues to evolve, it serves as a compelling example of modern architecture that harmonizes with nature. For those interested in exploring the myriad components of this innovative project further, delving into architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will provide deeper insights into the thoughtfully crafted elements that contribute to its overall vision. This project stands as an invitation to embrace sustainable living and the wonder of the skies above, reflecting a collective aspiration for architectural design that honors both the environment and human experience.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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