Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Zigzag Roof Form Crafted From Engineered Wood Panels with Expansive Glass Facades for Multifunctional Community Space

Author:
Andreas Hahn
Zigzag Roof Form Crafted From Engineered Wood Panels with Expansive Glass Facades for Multifunctional Community Space

Project in-detail

A zigzag roof form made from engineered wood panels and expansive glass facades defines this multifunctional community space, expertly blending into the geothermal landscape while accommodating both educational and recreational activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Zigzag roof design enhances natural light and connects with the surrounding mountains.
02
Prefabricated construction methods reduce environmental impact and build time.
03
Community areas are integrated with modular spaces for flexible usage.
04
Use of charred wooden shingles promotes weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
05
Large glass openings offer panoramic views while minimizing thermal loss.
The ZickZack project, located in Lambivellir, Vogar, Iceland, is an architectural intervention designed to serve as a multipurpose facility for both tourism and education. The building integrates into its natural milieu, drawing inspiration from the surrounding geothermal landscapes and traditional Icelandic architecture. This project exemplifies a synthesis of form, function, and environmental consideration.

The design features a distinctive zigzag roof form, which mirrors the undulating topography of the vicinity. This architectural choice not only enhances the aesthetic interaction with the landscape but also maximizes natural lighting within the interior spaces. The building utilizes a combination of materials including engineered wood, concrete, glass, and high-performance insulation, ensuring durability while maintaining a connection to the natural environment.

Unique Design Features
One of the defining characteristics of the ZickZack project is its flexible spatial configuration, allowing for varied use over time. The initial phase includes a café and exhibition area designed for community interaction, with plans for expansion to include workshop units that cater to educational purposes. The spatial arrangement is facilitated by prefabricated construction methods, optimizing building efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

The extensive use of glass in the facade emphasizes transparency and connectivity to the landscape, enhancing user experiences and fostering a sense of openness. The integration of walkways elevates circulation, creating a seamless flow between different areas while minimizing disturbance to the local ecosystem. These design strategies combine to establish a multifunctional space that prioritizes adaptability and environmental sustainability.

Sustainability and Functionality
The ZickZack project adheres to passive house standards, enhancing energy efficiency and ensuring lower operational costs. Its construction methods reflect a commitment to sustainability while accommodating the climatic conditions of Iceland, such as strong winds and seasonal temperature variations.

The building is designed to encourage community engagement, offering flexible areas for cultural events, exhibitions, and educational workshops. This multifunctional approach not only broadens the usability of the space but also solidifies its role as a communal hub within the local landscape.

For more comprehensive insights into the ZickZack project, including architectural plans and sections, consider exploring its detailed architectural designs and ideas further. This examination will provide a deeper understanding of its innovative approaches to function, sustainability, and community integration.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy