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Charred Wooden Shingles Define a Sustainable Lodge Integrated with Natural Landscapes

Charred Wooden Shingles Define a Sustainable Lodge Integrated with Natural Landscapes
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Designed with charred wooden shingles that integrate seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape, the lodge offers a functional retreat for skiing enthusiasts while prioritizing sustainability and a connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance and aesthetic integration with the surrounding landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while minimizing environmental impact.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes interior space and reduces snow accumulation on the roof.
04
Passive solar strategies are employed to maximize natural heating in winter months.
05
Strategically placed windows offer panoramic views of the Icelandic terrain, enhancing guest experience.

### Overview
Rauði Ísberginn Lodge is located in Iceland and embodies a synthesis of traditional Icelandic architectural elements with modern design strategies. This ski lodge is designed to establish a connection with its natural surroundings while promoting sustainable practices. The lodge references historical "turf houses" and is shaped to evoke the forms of icebergs, which aligns with its name, translating to "The Red Iceberg."

### Spatial Strategy
The interior arrangement of the lodge is strategically developed across multiple levels to balance functionality and comfort. Entry-level features include storage areas for skiing equipment, facilitating a smooth transition for guests from outdoor activities to relaxation. The main level is designed as a communal hub, featuring a central fireplace, a kitchen for guest nourishment, and an information area to enhance local exploration. The upper level prioritizes restful spaces with large windows, allowing for comfortable views of the Northern Lights, while the garage level is dedicated to operational functions, including storage for snow-grooming vehicles.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The lodge employs a diverse palette of materials that are both functional and visually striking. The exterior is clad in durable metal paneling, which withstands Iceland's harsh weather, complemented by warm wood finishes that provide a sense of rustic charm indoors. Concrete is utilized for structural integrity, while expansive glass windows maximize natural light and visual connections to the surroundings. Additionally, sustainable design techniques are incorporated, including passive solar strategies and the use of locally sourced materials, which reinforce the lodge's commitment to minimizing its ecological impact while supporting responsible tourism. The sloped roof design facilitates snow management, and the overall massing integrates the lodge into the landscape, optimizing views of the nearby mountains and forests.

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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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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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