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Sustainable Trekking Cabin Featuring Corrugated Metal Roof and Expansive Glass Facades

Authors:
Weston Baker, Sonya Mantell
Sustainable Trekking Cabin Featuring Corrugated Metal Roof and Expansive Glass Facades
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Constructed with locally sourced wood and a corrugated metal roof, the cabin offers expansive glass facades that connect occupants to the breathtaking Icelandic landscape while providing a functional retreat for trekkers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced timber, enhancing sustainability.
02
Features a corrugated metal roof designed for efficient snow drainage.
03
Incorporates large glass facades for panoramic landscape views.
04
Sleeping quarters designed for communal living, accommodating multiple guests.
05
Built to withstand Iceland's harsh weather while promoting energy efficiency.

# Analytical Report: Norse House Architectural Design Project

## Overview

Located in Iceland, the Norse House is designed as a trekking cabin for visitors engaging with the distinct Icelandic landscape. The project aims to provide a functional shelter that embodies both modern and traditional architectural elements, ensuring comfort and adaptability to the region's varying weather conditions. The cabin is strategically positioned amid rugged mountains and expansive vegetation, enhancing its relationship with the surrounding environment.

## Structural Configuration

### Architectural Form and Roof Design

The Norse House features a triangular A-frame design, which contributes to efficient drainage of precipitation and snow. The sloped roof, crafted from corrugated metal, enhances durability and facilitates water management; it directs melted snow toward a collection point at the rear for use in the kitchen. The primary structural framework comprises locally sourced wooden beams, reflecting traditional Icelandic construction practices while allowing for spacious and open interior arrangements.

### Material Selection

Material choices emphasize sustainability and local context. Locally sourced wooden beams not only provide structural integrity but also resonate with Iceland's historical building materials. The corrugated metal roof is both functional and visually appealing, while large glass facades allow for panoramic views and an influx of natural light, fostering a strong connection to the exterior landscape. High-efficiency insulation materials are incorporated to optimize energy conservation and maintain a comfortable indoor climate.

## Interior Organization and User Experience

### Adaptive Layout

The interior layout is designed to accommodate diverse visitor needs, featuring communal spaces alongside private sleeping quarters. The sleeping area includes up to eight bunk beds, promoting social interaction among guests. A spacious lounge area encourages relaxation and engagement, complete with comfortable seating and a fireplace. Essential facilities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and storage areas are strategically positioned to enhance space utilization and overall user experience.

### Outdoor Interaction

Outdoor integration is a key aspect, with a deck extending towards nearby water and pathways designed to connect with the natural terrain. This encourages exploration and interaction with the landscape, enhancing the visitor experience while maintaining respect for the site's ecological integrity.

The Norse House exemplifies a thoughtful balance of design, materiality, and functionality suitable for the Icelandic environment. Its ability to adapt to different terrains further underscores its innovative approach in architectural practice.

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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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Competition organisers

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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