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Elevated Shelter Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Authors:
Hervé Perraud, Philippe Peson, Marco Meli, Célia Mazière
Elevated Shelter Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles
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Suspended above the rugged Icelandic landscape, the cabin utilizes cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles to create a sustainable shelter that blends functionality with environmental sensitivity for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended structure minimizes ground disruption and preserves natural vegetation.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
03
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water usage.
04
Features a communal interior layout that promotes social interaction among occupants.
05
Innovatively combines traditional Icelandic design elements with modern materials.

### Overview

The project, "Suspended Beacon," is located in the rugged landscapes of Iceland and is designed as a remote cabin for outdoor enthusiasts. By integrating modern architectural concepts with traditional Icelandic longhouses, the design seeks to provide a functional and inviting shelter that reflects both regional heritage and contemporary needs. The structure serves as a landmark within the vast terrain, offering safety and guidance for trekkers navigating the wilderness.

### Material Composition and Sustainability

The use of materials is critical to the cabin's performance and ecological footprint. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is selected for its structural strength and thermal insulation properties, while reinforced concrete anchors the cabin, ensuring stability against Iceland's harsh weather conditions. Photovoltaic panels integrated into the roof generate renewable energy, and a rainwater harvesting system promotes resource efficiency. Additionally, the incorporation of tensile fabrics adds flexibility to the design while minimizing weight. These choices collectively create a resilient habitation solution, capable of adapting to extreme environmental challenges.

### Architectural Design and User Interaction

The architectural form features a zigzag silhouette that enhances wind resistance and complements the undulating landscape. Inside, the design promotes communal living with a central dining area and strategically placed bunks that maximize space and comfort. Elevated above the ground on a series of cables, the structure minimizes ecological disruption and offers unobstructed views of the natural surroundings, including the northern lights. This design philosophy emphasizes user experience by providing opportunities for social interaction while maintaining a connection to the natural environment, thereby enriching the overall experience of users amidst the wilderness.

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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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