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Teardrop-Shaped Guest Houses With ETFE and Timber Emphasizing Community Gathering In Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Dana Dimalanta, Saul Flores, Pei-en Yang
Teardrop-Shaped Guest Houses With ETFE and Timber Emphasizing Community Gathering In Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted with lightweight ETFE and shaped like teardrops, these communal guest houses harmonize with the Icelandic landscape while providing inviting spaces for gathering and connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design employs lightweight ETFE, allowing natural light while providing weather protection.
02
Each guest house features a unique teardrop shape that enhances wind resistance and structural stability.
03
Charred wooden shingles are used for exterior finishes, promoting durability and fire resistance.
04
The project includes innovative hydraulic support legs, enabling adaptability to varied terrain.
05
Communal spaces are intentionally designed to foster connections, centered around a shared fireplace for warmth and gathering.
The architectural project Hjörð embodies a nuanced understanding of community and cultural heritage, drawing inspiration from Icelandic traditions. This design features a series of portable guest houses and a main communal house, creating a cohesive gathering space that invites interaction while respecting the surrounding landscape. At its core, Hjörð represents the significance of coming together around the elements of fire and shelter, which have historically provided warmth and unity in Icelandic life.

The primary function of this project is to facilitate communal engagement among visitors, offering a retreat that is both private and communal. The guest houses serve as intimate spaces for 2 to 4 people, each equipped with essential amenities and a central fireplace that emphasizes the importance of togetherness. The layout of the houses fosters a sense of connection, as they are arranged in a circular formation that encourages interaction among occupants. This configuration not only enhances the function of the space but also reinforces the idea of community as a central theme in Icelandic culture.

One noteworthy aspect of the architectural design is the unique teardrop shape of the guest houses, which is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The lightweight ETFE fabric used for the walls allows natural light to filter in while providing protection from Iceland's challenging weather. This contemporary material contrasts beautifully with traditional wooden elements, showcasing a thoughtful balance between modern techniques and cultural craftsmanship. The use of wooden framework and hydraulic support legs ensures that the guest houses can adapt to various terrains, demonstrating an innovative approach to structural design.

The main house functions as the central hub of the project, acting as a ‘shepherd’ for the scattered guest houses. This building serves multiple purposes, including staff quarters, entertainment spaces, and areas designated for cultural experiences. Its larger, more substantial architecture anchors the project within the landscape, drawing attention to its role as a facilitator of community interactions. The design promotes fluid movement between spaces, allowing visitors to seamlessly transition from private accommodations to communal areas where interaction is encouraged.

Key elements in the main house include spaces for dining and leisure, reflecting the social dynamics that are integral to Icelandic life. The architectural plans lay out careful considerations for both functionality and comfort, ensuring that areas are versatile enough to accommodate various activities while promoting opportunities for connection. The architectural sections illustrate the thoughtful balance of scale and materiality, which further enhance the project’s relationship with its natural surroundings.

Hjörð’s architectural ideas stand apart due to their emphasis on harmony with the environment, embracing a dual focus on modernity and tradition. The project exemplifies a sustainable approach to design, incorporating materials that are both local and relevant, ensuring that the final construction operates within the context of its geographic location. This integration cultivates an immersive experience that allows visitors to engage with Icelandic culture on a deeper level.

In navigating through the various aspects of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs for further insights into how these elements coalesce to create a thoughtful and functional gathering space in Iceland. The comprehensive exploration of Hjörð reveals an architectural narrative that is both inviting and reflective of a rich cultural heritage, making it a commendable study in community-centered design.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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