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Elevated Design Featuring Concrete Texture and Wooden Slats Overlooking Icelandic Landscapes

Authors:
Juan Sala, Douglas Harsevoort
Elevated Design Featuring Concrete Texture and Wooden Slats Overlooking Icelandic Landscapes

Project in-detail

Constructed with a cantilevered design and a combination of concrete and wooden slats, the guesthouse offers seamless integration with the Icelandic landscape while providing an elevated experience for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a cantilevered layout to enhance views and minimize land impact.
02
Incorporates local materials for seamless integration with the environment.
03
Features large glass panels for panoramic landscape visibility.
04
Employs a sustainable geothermal energy system for heating.
05
Designed with modular layouts to accommodate future expansions.
The Double House is an architectural project located in the natural landscape of Iceland, specifically designed as an extension of the Vogarjós Farm Resort. Combining modern design elements with traditional Icelandic architecture, this guest accommodation provides both comfort and an aesthetic connection with its environment. The project emphasizes elevated structures that enhance the surrounding views while serving practical hospitality needs.

The primary function of the Double House is to offer luxurious accommodation with an emphasis on guest experience. It incorporates multiple suites with large windows that frame picturesque vistas of the Icelandic terrain and sky. The layout balances private and communal spaces, encouraging interaction among guests while maintaining personal retreat areas.

Unique Design Approaches to Context and Materials

A key aspect of the Double House is its careful integration with the landscape. The use of concrete, wood, glass, and steel creates a sophisticated interplay of materials that reflect both durability and warmth. The reddish hue of the concrete surface draws inspiration from geologic features native to Iceland, contributing to the overall character of the structure. Large glass panels facilitate a visual continuum between the interior and exterior, enhancing the sense of space and connection to the environment.

The roof design features angular pitches reminiscent of traditional Icelandic dwellings, while the overall form of the building appears to hover above the ground, establishing a physical and visual connection to the terrain. Additionally, the strategic placement of balconies and overhangs maximizes outdoor access and engagement with the environment.

Each suite is designed with careful consideration to privacy, offering large windows that maintain comfort without compromising views. The choice of materials further ensures that interior spaces remain warm and inviting, with furnishings that complement the overarching natural aesthetic.

Functionality and Flexibility in Design

Incorporating sustainable practices, the Double House is optimized for energy efficiency through its design and material choices. The elevated profile minimizes impact on the terrain, preserving the integrity of the natural landscape. This approach not only enhances visual appeal but also creates potential for future expansions, allowing the project to adapt to evolving hospitality needs without disrupting the existing architectural language.

The Double House exemplifies a contemporary approach to hospitality architecture, emphasizing the importance of context, materiality, and guest engagement. Explore the project presentation to gain insights into architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural designs that illustrate the innovative ideas behind this project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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