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Charred Wooden Shingles and Triangular Forms Enrich Sustainable Lodging Experience

Author:
Gabriel Márquez Torres
Charred Wooden Shingles and Triangular Forms Enrich Sustainable Lodging Experience
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Triangular roofs adorned with charred wooden shingles create a visually distinct structure designed to provide sustainable accommodation with a focus on environmental harmony and user experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Triangular roofs enhance structural stability while optimizing views of the northern lights.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide sustainable weather resistance unique to the local environment.
03
The use of cross-laminated timber panels allows for rapid assembly and efficient insulation.
04
A modular layout facilitates flexible accommodation arrangements and future expansion.
05
Hydraulic bases ensure adaptability to varying ground conditions while maintaining structural integrity.

### Overview
Located in Iceland, the design of the Northern Light Rooms is rooted in the region's natural features and cultural heritage. The intent is to create a space that harmonizes with the landscape while emphasizing the interplay of light and fire. This project seeks to offer visitors a contemplative experience by reconnecting them with nature, utilizing architectural symbols that resonate with both the environment and Icelandic culture.

### Spatial Configuration
The masterplan adopts a triangular footprint that facilitates relationships among various groups, including visitors, hosts, and horses. This layout introduces a clear spatial hierarchy, defining zones for entry, the main house, parking, and accommodation. The triangular arrangement optimizes views of the northern lights and fosters a cohesive flow between the interior and exterior environments.

Modular components are central to the design, consisting of three flexible units: services, restrooms, and living areas. Each module is thoughtfully equipped with essentials such as entrances, storage, and bathrooms, ensuring practical usability for diverse visitor needs. Additionally, vertical and horizontal elements within the elevations maintain the triangular theme while framing views of the surrounding landscape, and the strategic use of glazing maximizes natural light and thermal efficiency.

### Material Selection
The materials chosen for the Northern Light Rooms play a critical role in reinforcing the project’s connection to the Icelandic landscape. A wood frame contributes structural integrity while offering aesthetic warmth. Wooden boards enhance insulation and maintain a natural finish, while metal foil serves as an insulating barrier to address temperature fluctuations. Hydraulic bases allow for modular expansion, ensuring that the design can adapt over time. The overall selection aims to create a tactile experience that resonates with the sensory qualities of the environment.

Collaborative spaces, such as the fire pit in the main house and the transparent living areas, are designed to foster communal interaction under the northern lights, establishing an ambiance that invites social engagement. The architectural form not only addresses practical considerations but also frames the dynamic weather and light conditions, enhancing the immersive experience of the site.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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