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Grass Roof Cabin Featuring Modular Layout and Panoramic Glass Views in Icelandic Landscape

Author:
Sarah Moseley
Grass Roof Cabin Featuring Modular Layout and Panoramic Glass Views in Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with a unique grass roof and modular design, this cabin in Iceland utilizes panoramic glass to integrate with its surroundings, creating an immersive retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a grass roof that enhances thermal efficiency and blends into the landscape.
02
Incorporates a spiral viewing tower that offers 360-degree vistas of the surrounding Icelandic terrain.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Features modular spaces designed for flexible use, catering to both communal gatherings and private retreats.
05
Employs extensive glass panels to maximize natural light and promote a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

The architectural project "Whispering Muse" is a trekking cabin located in the varied and captivating landscapes of Iceland. This design integrates modern aesthetics with traditional Icelandic architecture, creating a space that encourages interaction with the surrounding environment. Emphasizing sustainability and user experience, the project serves as a retreat for visitors, providing both communal and private spaces that foster relaxation and reflection.

The architectural design features a spiral viewing tower, which allows for panoramic vistas of the Icelandic terrain and facilitates a deeper connection with nature. The cabin consists of a modular layout that includes living, sleeping, and cooking areas, allowing flexibility in usage while supporting communal activities. Outdoor terraces surround the structure, further promoting engagement with the landscape.

Reflection of Icelandic Heritage and Modern Techniques

A notable aspect of "Whispering Muse" is its skillful appropriation of Iceland's architectural traditions, particularly the use of a grass roof reminiscent of historical turf houses. This design significantly enhances the building's thermal performance and minimizes visual impact on the landscape. By using local materials such as wood and concrete, the project aligns itself with sustainable practices while promoting durability suited for Iceland's climate. The interplay between expansive glass windows and solid walls maximizes natural light and views while emphasizing thermal efficiency.

Flexible and Interactive Spaces

The design prioritizes spatial fluidity, allowing different areas within the cabin to be adapted for various uses. Communal spaces encourage interaction amongst guests, while private sleeping quarters offer refuge. This balance is integral to the user experience, resulting in environments that cultivate both social engagement and personal retreat. Furthermore, the careful placement of outdoor spaces ensures that occupants can seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing the connection to the natural surroundings.

For additional insights into the architecture of "Whispering Muse," including detailed architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. This exploration will offer a deeper understanding of how the integration of traditional elements with modern design principles creates a unique and functional architectural solution in an exceptional setting.

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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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