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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

Project in-detail

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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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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