5 key facts about this project
The project engages with the unique qualities of the Icelandic landscape, taking advantage of the captivating Northern Lights. Designed as a series of huts, it serves as a retreat for visitors while exploring the connection between built forms and the natural environment. The concept focuses on creating interactions where architecture extends into nature, reflecting the shapes of land and sky.
Site Organization
The layout employs a mix of centralized and decentralized designs. Huts are grouped around a central deck that connects to the main access road, providing a communal space. This arrangement makes it easy for guests to reach their accommodations and encourages social interaction. A notable feature is the movable huts that can travel along simple tracks. This allows for flexible setups, catering to personal preferences for privacy while maintaining a connection to shared areas.
Architectural Forms
The design draws from traditional Icelandic huts, capturing their essence while incorporating modern ideas. Roofs blend with the surrounding landscape, creating a natural flow between the two. This connection reduces visual disruption, and as plants grow, the structures increasingly blend into their environment. The result is a design that feels like a part of the landscape rather than something separate.
Sustainability and Materials
Natural ventilation is important in the design, enhancing comfort without relying heavily on mechanical systems. A ground source heat pump connected to underfloor heating demonstrates a focus on energy efficiency. The project uses timber laminated structures and timber panels, which are chosen for their strength and ease of prefabrication. These materials allow for efficient on-site assembly while respecting the ecological principles important in this setting.
The design fosters a deep relationship between people and the Icelandic landscape. Huts do more than just serve their purpose; they also capture the beauty of the region, inviting visitors to experience the shifting colors and forms of the Northern Lights from inside.