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Charred Wooden Shingles Embrace Natural Spaces in A Community-Centric Hub

Author:
Pei-ling Lu
Charred Wooden Shingles Embrace Natural Spaces in A Community-Centric Hub

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design seamlessly blends with the Icelandic landscape while serving as a vibrant hub for community interaction and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance in a harsh climate.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability through local sourcing.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation within the space.
04
Includes a community greenhouse that supports local agriculture and education initiatives.
05
Integrates aquaponics systems for sustainable food production within the residential environment.
The architectural project titled "Relaxing Life" embodies a thoughtful integration of built environments with the natural landscape, situated in the picturesque setting of Iceland. This project represents a multifaceted approach to architecture, focused on community engagement, sustainability, and the promotion of well-being through design. It aims to create spaces where individuals can thrive, fostering both social connections and personal tranquility.

Functionally, the project serves as a communal hub that balances private living areas with shared spaces designed for interaction and collaboration. The layout consists of a series of interconnected buildings, thoughtfully organized to optimize the natural flow of movement while creating an inviting atmosphere. Key components include communal greenhouses that encourage local food production, activity centers tailored for community gatherings, and educational spaces that support knowledge exchange. Additionally, the design incorporates waste management areas that facilitate eco-friendly practices, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability.

A unique aspect of this project is its design inspiration, heavily influenced by Iceland's marine economy, particularly referencing the cod fishing industry. This concept manifests in the architectural form, showcasing lines and contours that evoke the lateral movements of fish in water. By utilizing these natural forms, the design envisions a structure that resonates with its environment, promoting harmony between the built and the natural worlds. The architectural elements are thoughtfully composed to respond to the local climate, ensuring that each space remains comfortable throughout the varying seasonal conditions of Iceland.

Attention to materiality is another critical feature of "Relaxing Life." The selection of materials reflects both functionality and an alignment with the surrounding landscape. Wood is used extensively for cladding and internal finishes, providing warmth and texture that enhance the user experience. Glass is strategically incorporated to maximize natural light while promoting thermal efficiency. Concrete serves as a fundamental material, providing durability to withstand the harsh weather conditions typical of the region, while steel elements ensure structural integrity and resilience.

The design also prioritizes sustainability by integrating modern technology and nature-based strategies. Heat pump systems harness geothermal energy, underscoring a commitment to reducing ecological footprints. Additionally, aquaponics systems within the greenhouse showcase innovative ways to combine agriculture and aquaculture, further emphasizing sustainable practices. These approaches not only promote environmental stewardship but also create educational opportunities for the community, empowering individuals to adopt sustainable lifestyles.

Interior spaces are laid out with flexibility in mind, allowing for a variety of uses, from workshops and classrooms to relaxed social areas. Each space is designed to be multifunctional, fostering an environment conducive to creativity and interaction. The architectural flow contributes to an overall sense of well-being, encouraging occupants to engage with both the indoor and outdoor environments.

In summary, "Relaxing Life" exemplifies a forward-thinking architectural project that prioritizes both community and environmental considerations. Its innovative design approaches, rooted in local culture and ecological principles, serve as a model for future developments. Interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further, reviewing architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain a comprehensive understanding of the ideas and processes that inform this well-conceived architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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