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Curvilinear Form Enhanced by Triple-Glazed Glass and Charred Wood Shingles in Icelandic Hospitality Design

Authors:
Rune Nistad, Daniel Loe, Vlad Lyakhov
Curvilinear Form Enhanced by Triple-Glazed Glass and Charred Wood Shingles in Icelandic Hospitality Design

Project in-detail

A curvilinear structure clad in charred wooden shingles and framed with triple-glazed glass seamlessly integrates with the Icelandic landscape, providing a unique hospitality experience that fosters a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear form aligns with natural site contours for minimal environmental impact.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and provide fire resistance.
03
Triple-glazed windows optimize thermal performance in cold climates.
04
Interior spaces designed to maximize views of the northern lights.
05
Uses cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and sustainability.

The project, titled "The Curve," represents a contemporary architecture design situated in Iceland, where the natural environment plays a central role in its conception. The overall design prioritizes integration with the landscape, reflecting the topography and enriching the user experience. Functionally, the project accommodates a blend of communal and private spaces, designed to enhance social interaction while providing intimate settings for guests. The architecture promotes a connection with the surrounding nature, emphasizing the visual and sensory experience of the unique Icelandic scenery.

The main structure features a fluid, curved form that gracefully follows the contours of the site. This approach allows for a harmonious interaction between the building and its environment, a departure from traditional linear designs found in similar hospitality projects. The architectural layout includes a communal living room and kitchen area that fosters social engagement, while the arrangement of bedrooms ensures privacy and stunning views of the natural surroundings. Expansive glass facades are employed to maximize visual access to the landscape, effectively blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments.

Innovative Design Approach

A distinctive aspect of "The Curve" is its thoughtful material selection, emphasizing sustainability and locality. The building utilizes triple-glazed windows for energy efficiency and comfort, which contribute to the overall performance in Iceland's cold climate. The exterior is clad in wood shingles that not only resonate with local craftsmanship but also provide a warm aesthetic that contrasts with the starkness of the landscape. Concrete walls serve as a robust structural element while aligning with minimalist principles, creating a modern yet respectful representation of traditional building aesthetics.

The design also includes functional outdoor spaces, such as a terrace and heated pool, allowing guests to enjoy the surrounding environment year-round. The careful positioning of these elements invites an exploration of the landscape, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in nature while providing multiple settings for leisure and relaxation.

Architectural Detail and Function

The internal layout is methodically organized, ensuring that every space serves its purpose efficiently while maintaining a cohesive flow throughout the building. Bedrooms are strategically placed to allow unobstructed views and maximize natural light. Circulation routes within the building are clear and intuitive, further enhancing the user experience.

Distinctive features, such as a centerpiece fireplace in the communal area, are designed to foster warmth and social connection, enhancing the comfort of occupants. The overall design integrates these functional necessities with aesthetic sensibility, presenting a clear vision of modern architecture that respects both its users and its context.

To gain deeper insights into the project, including architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas, it is encouraged to explore further details in the project presentation. This offers a comprehensive understanding of the architectural strategies employed within "The Curve" and their contribution to a cohesive living experience.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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