The Panorama Pause is located on the east coast of Lake Mývatn in Iceland, surrounded by diverse natural features such as volcanic landscapes and glacial valleys. Designed as a retreat, it invites guests to connect with nature while offering a balance of privacy and communal areas. The overall concept revolves around a circular layout, responding to the landscape while creating functional living spaces.

Design Concept

The building features a traditional pitched roof cottage design, with guest rooms arranged in a circular formation around a central area. This layout allows for a common corridor that provides access to the individual rooms while ensuring visual privacy. Each guest room is strategically designed to block views from the corridor, while opening up to the outside. This design choice fosters a strong connection between the interior and the scenic landscape outside.

Spatial Organization

Inside The Panorama Pause, a solo-room is included in four locations around the circular layout, catering to those looking for quiet and solitude. Central communal spaces, like the kitchen and living room, encourage interaction among guests. This balance between public and private areas allows for both shared experiences and personal reflection, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Environmental Considerations

The design emphasizes reducing environmental impact. By elevating the building, it minimizes its footprint on the land. This approach helps preserve the natural landscape while incorporating an inner courtyard with an outdoor hot bath. The bath offers a space for relaxation and contemplation, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful surroundings in a peaceful setting.

Materials and Aesthetics

Timber is the main material used for the frame, with the exterior clad in larch wood. This choice aligns with the project’s intent to be sustainable while achieving an aesthetic that fits harmoniously within the environment. The careful selection of materials ensures longevity and reflects a sensitivity to the surrounding nature.

The layout, with its circular formation and thoughtfully placed rooms, along with the natural materials, offers comfort. It enhances the experience of the occupants, inviting them to engage with the breathtaking Icelandic landscape.