Architecture project // Non-Symmetrical Cabins with Birch and Panoramic Views in the Icelandic Landscape

Non-Symmetrical Cabins with Birch and Panoramic Views in the Icelandic Landscape

Authors:

Siyka Georgieva, Patricia Fredborg

Designed with non-symmetrical roofs and large panoramic windows, the cabins utilize local birch to offer unique viewpoints of the northern lights while providing comfortable accommodations for visitors in Iceland's dramatic landscape.

5 key facts about this project

Cabins feature non-symmetrical roofs that enhance visual interest and change perspectives.

Large windows positioned at 2.2 meters provide privacy while maximizing views of the northern lights.

Designed utilizing local birch wood to reflect sustainability and regional materials.

Cabins are arranged to promote community interaction without sacrificing individual privacy.

Service area includes essential amenities while maintaining proximity to guest accommodations.

General keywords

iceland guest houses turf house birch nature privacy community northern lights sustainability landscape

Project specific keywords

turf non-symmetrical panoramic windows ground-source heat pump celestial views

Located in the captivating landscape of Iceland, the design focuses on creating guest houses that fit into the natural surroundings. Inspired by traditional turf houses, the project highlights the importance of blending architecture with the environment. It aims to offer comfort while allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Iceland's unique scenery, particularly the mesmerizing northern lights.

Conceptual Framework

The design emphasizes how architecture can interact with the landscape. The cabins feature roofs that are not only inclined and non-symmetrical but also create varied visual perspectives. As guests move around the structures, they experience the play of form in new ways. This encourages them to explore and engage with the environment, deepening their connection to the natural world around them.

Materiality and Environment

Using local materials is a key aspect of the design, particularly the choice of birch wood for both the inside and outside of the cabins. Birch is well-suited for the challenging weather of the region and reflects a commitment to sustainability. Its natural appearance adds warmth to the interiors, helping the structures blend into the Icelandic landscape.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the guest houses is carefully considered to promote both community and privacy. The cabins are arranged to facilitate social interaction while maintaining personal space for visitors. A service area close by contains practical amenities such as a kitchen, dining area, bathrooms, and a sauna. This thoughtful organization enhances the overall functionality of the site.

Design Details

Large windows serve as a significant design feature, providing sweeping views of the night sky. These windows are set at a height of 2.2 meters, allowing privacy while drawing attention to the outside. Different sizes of the windows contribute to a dynamic experience of light and space, connecting the architecture to the ever-changing landscape. The focus on natural views enhances the overall experience of staying in the cabins, inviting guests to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.