Architecture project // Stone Base and Wooden Roof Creating Thermal Comfort in a Lakeside Retreat

Stone Base and Wooden Roof Creating Thermal Comfort in a Lakeside Retreat

Authors:

Ali furkan Yönder, Havva elif Koç

Constructed with a sturdy stone base and a warm wooden roof, the building merges traditional Icelandic materials to provide thermal comfort and stunning views of Lake Mývatn, serving as a restaurant and guesthouse for a unique lakeside experience.

5 key facts about this project

Constructed with a stone base that provides strong thermal insulation.

Features a wooden roof designed to manage heavy snow loads.

Small windows minimize heat loss while maintaining natural light.

Incorporates vegetable soil on the roof for enhanced insulation.

Each guest room offers scenic views of Lake Mývatn.

General keywords

iceland restaurant guesthouse lake mvatn community thermal insulation traditional wood landscape sustainability

Project specific keywords

stone base wooden roof small openings vegetable soil lake views

Vogafjós Restaurant & Guest House is located in the scenic landscape of Iceland, designed to blend with its surroundings. The facility serves as both a dining area and a place for visitors to stay, offering an experience that connects guests to the natural beauty of the region. The design concept draws heavily from traditional Icelandic architecture, focusing on how the space can respond to the climate and foster both comfort and community.

Use of Local Materials

A prominent feature of the design is the stone base that encircles the building, providing essential thermal insulation. This aspect of the structure keeps the interior warm despite the cold Icelandic weather. The stone base also allows the building to connect visually and physically to its environment. Above this base, a wooden roof rises, shaped to handle the weight of snow and the wind that often sweeps across the region. This thoughtful approach to material selection reflects the practical needs of the local climate.

Spatial Organization

The layout of Vogafjós Restaurant & Guest House encourages interaction among guests while also providing spaces for privacy. Common areas, such as the restaurant and reception lobby/bar, are situated on the northwest facade, inviting guests to gather and socialize. The outdoor hot tub is located on the southeast side, allowing for a relaxing experience surrounded by nature, while still offering guests a sense of enclosure.

Guest Accommodations

The first floor features guest rooms that offer views of Lake Mývatn, enhancing the overall experience of staying in such a beautiful area. Each room is thoughtfully designed; even the wet spaces have windows that overlook the landscape, integrating nature into the guest experience. A shared living area further supports social interaction, making the space feel welcoming and communal.

The design integrates small windows and doors, a decision made to prevent heat loss and maintain a cozy atmosphere. This choice mirrors the characteristics of traditional Icelandic homes, showing a commitment to preserving local architectural styles while also meeting modern needs. Each aspect of Vogafjós Restaurant & Guest House is reflective of an understanding of place and enhances the connection between the building and its stunning geographic setting.