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Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Shape a Self-Sufficient Micro Home in the Forest

Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Shape a Self-Sufficient Micro Home in the Forest
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Constructed with cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, this self-sufficient micro home seamlessly integrates into the Hallormsstaðaskógur forest while providing essential living functions through innovative ecological systems.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with local cross-laminated timber to enhance sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and visual texture.
03
Employs a bent A-frame design that minimizes material use while maximizing space.
04
Features a mechanical dumbwaiter for efficient transport of firewood within the home.
05
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system to promote self-sufficiency in water usage.

### Overview
Located in the Hallormsstaðaskógur forest in East Iceland, the project emphasizes the integration of residential living with natural ecosystems. Encompassing 25 square meters, the design embodies principles of symbiotic architecture, focusing on the interdependence between built environments and their ecological contexts. By utilizing innovative technologies and materials, the structure reflects a commitment to sustainability while promoting responsible resource management.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction
The design features an open floor plan that prioritizes the flow of natural light and air, with a central living space surrounded by functional zones, including a kitchen and a bathroom. Raised on stilts, the home reduces ground disturbance and allows precipitation runoff, promoting ecological harmony. A unique mechanical system, including a dumbwaiter, facilitates the efficient transport of firewood, enhancing user experience while underscoring the project’s operational efficiency.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration
The project employs locally sourced timber for structural elements and finishes, establishing a direct connection with its surroundings. Steel provides necessary structural support, designed for resilience in Iceland’s challenging climate. Large windows enhance the visual relationship with the landscape, while solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems contribute to energy efficiency and water self-sufficiency. Each aspect of the material composition is meticulously curated to minimize waste and maximize the life cycle of resources, positioning the residency as a model of sustainable living.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

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