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Charred Wooden Shingles Define a Sustainable Lodge Integrated With Natural Landscapes

Author:
Sangsuri Chun
Charred Wooden Shingles Define a Sustainable Lodge Integrated With Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

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

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Chair
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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