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Cross-Laminated Timber Homes Merging with Icelandic Landscapes Through Sustainable Design

Authors:
Sam Walters, Oli Matini, Jake Scargill
Cross-Laminated Timber Homes Merging with Icelandic Landscapes Through Sustainable Design
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Utilizing cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, this architecture project seamlessly integrates sustainable living within Iceland's rugged terrain, offering a series of versatile residential units designed for communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates modular design for customizable living spaces tailored to occupants’ needs.
03
Employs a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and space efficiency.
04
Integrates seamlessly with Iceland's rugged topography, minimizing environmental disruption.
05
Features communal areas that promote local craftsmanship and social interaction among residents.

## Project Overview
Located in a cascading mountainous landscape reminiscent of Iceland, the design integrates sustainable living with a profound connection to nature. Inspired by local folklore and the Vegvisir symbol—an ancient Norse navigation aid—the project embodies themes of resilience and environmental stewardship. By applying these cultural references, the design seeks to create a respectful partnership between the built environment and its natural surroundings.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience
The structure employs a modular system that allows for various configurations based on user needs. Each module can serve multiple functions, ranging from private living spaces to communal areas, encouraging interaction among users while reflecting traditional Icelandic community living. The design fosters a collaborative atmosphere, emphasizing individual customization and engagement with the environment.

## Materiality and Sustainability
Key materials are selected for their sustainability and performance in the harsh Icelandic climate. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is utilized for its structural integrity and eco-friendliness, providing a warm interior ambiance. Areas are strategically designed with glass to maximize natural light, reinforcing the connection with the landscape. Sustainable insulation materials and solar panels further enhance the ecological footprint, promoting energy efficiency and reliance on renewable sources.

In aligning modern architectural practices with cultural narratives and ecological considerations, the design serves as a model for sustainable tourism and community engagement, aiming to enrich the local environment and economy while respecting traditional values.

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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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