5 key facts about this project
### Project Overview
Located in Iceland, this development comprises a guest house and a main building designed to enhance the interaction between visitors and the surrounding natural landscape. The intent is to provide a modern accommodation experience while reflecting the serene ambiance characteristic of the Nordic environment. By drawing inspiration from traditional Icelandic architecture, the design promotes a balance between human habitation and its pristine setting.
### Spatial Strategy and Integration
The main building adopts a contemporary interpretation of classic turf house features, characterized by a saddle roof covered in sod. The architectural layout emphasizes an open-plan design that encourages movement and social interactions among guests, with specific areas allocated for cooking, dining, and leisure activities. The positioning of bedrooms is strategic, with expansive glazing that optimizes views of the Northern Lights, fostering an immersive environment that connects occupants with the outdoor landscape.
Modular guest houses complement the main building, each maintaining a cohesive aesthetic while offering individual character. Designed with flexible interiors, these units cater to varying group sizes without sacrificing comfort. Their architectural forms echo the main building, utilizing sloping roofs and allowing for efficient space utilization that enhances guest experience.
### Materiality and Sustainability
The project employs thoughtfully selected materials that align with sustainable practices and the local heritage. Timber serves as the primary structural component, noted for its ecological benefits and warmth, while the sod roofing integrates biophilic qualities. Large expanses of glass invite natural light and create visual connections to the spectacular surroundings.
In the modular guest houses, modern construction techniques such as sandwich panels and metal cladding ensure thermal efficiency and durability. Pneumatic supports allow for easier assembly and adaptability, making these units responsive to the evolving needs of guests.
Energy-efficient systems, such as geothermal heating, reinforce the commitment to sustainability, aligning with Iceland’s focus on renewable resources. This combination of innovative design and a thoughtful approach to material selection underscores the project's intention to meld functional accommodation with environmental stewardship.