Architecture project // Elevated Cabins Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles for Communal Retreats

Elevated Cabins Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles for Communal Retreats

Author:

Sean Siravo

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and charred shingles, these elevated cabins provide a distinctive retreat that fosters community interaction while offering breathtaking views of the Northern Lights.

5 key facts about this project

Constructed using locally sourced cross-laminated timber for enhanced sustainability and structural stability.

Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance while integrating with the natural landscape.

Elevated cabins feature adjustable footings to adapt to varying terrain and enhance views.

A central oculus in the community center maximizes natural light and offers panoramic night sky views.

Design emphasizes both individual privacy and communal interaction to enrich guest experiences.

General keywords

iceland cabins community retreat northern lights nature sustainability contemporary interaction nomadic

Project specific keywords

timber aluminum community center retractable porch central oculus aurora viewing elevated cabins natural stone minimalist style adaptive terrain

### Overview
The Terra Lux project is situated in Iceland and is conceived as a contemporary initiative that integrates traditional architectural elements with modern design practices. The development comprises various components: nomadic cabins, a community center named "Hearth and Stables," and a dwelling known as "Natures Divide." The design intent focuses on fostering a strong connection between occupants and the surrounding landscape while providing immersive experiences that capitalized on the unique environmental phenomena of the region, particularly the Northern Lights.

### Spatial Strategy
The design incorporates a holistic approach to spatial arrangement, facilitating both individual relaxation and communal engagement. The Nomad's Cabins, characterized by a gable roof and a rectangular form, provide elevated platforms that enhance visibility of the natural surroundings, including the aurora. Features such as retractable porches and skylights optimize the viewing experience, ensuring a balance between private retreats and collective experiences. The Hearth and Stables serve as a central gathering point, designed with a circular layout and an oculus that allows panoramic views of the Northern Lights while encouraging social interaction among guests.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration
The choice of materials in the Terra Lux project reflects a commitment to sustainability and visual harmony with the landscape. The use of aluminum provides structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight framework, essential for enduring Iceland’s climate. Timber for cladding and interiors introduces warmth, promoting a tactile connection to the environment. Natural stone elements reinforce the rugged aesthetic, particularly in communal spaces, while earth integration at the Hearth and Stables emphasizes a direct relationship with the natural surroundings. The minimalist design of Natures Divide, featuring a heavy roof that limits outer views, nurtures a contained yet expansive atmosphere, encouraging occupancy to engage with the dynamic landscape.