WindBerg

Silesian University of Technology, (Politechnika Śląska), Faculty of Architecture, Gliwice

Project idea

This architectural project introduces a unique and innovative small house concept located in the breathtaking and ever-changing landscape of Iceland. Inspired by the smooth, sculptural forms and organic fluidity of glaciers, the design pays tribute to the natural beauty of the island while offering a modern, functional, and sustainable housing solution. The structure features an aerodynamic and streamlined form that not only enhances its visual integration with the surrounding environment but also ensures high resistance to the powerful and often unpredictable Icelandic winds that shape the landscape.

Project description

The design encourages community-building through the possibility of connecting multiple units together. These interconnected homes can form floating or land-based villages, creating vibrant social hubs while preserving the visual coherence of the glacier-inspired aesthetic. This vision supports the idea of small, self-sufficient, and environmentally conscious communities that can thrive in remote or ecologically sensitive areas without causing harm to the surrounding ecosystems.

The house represents a harmonious blend of minimalist aesthetics, sustainable innovation, and highly functional design. Large panoramic windows, soft organic materials, and carefully curated textures help merge the interior with the surrounding landscape, offering a constant visual and emotional connection to nature. At the same time, the project emphasizes responsible living by minimizing its environmental footprint and utilizing renewable resources and passive energy solutions wherever possible.

Overall, this architectural vision redefines the concept of home in extreme environments. It celebrates Iceland’s raw, untamed beauty while offering a futuristic, customizable living experience. Balancing cutting-edge innovation with ecological sensitivity, the project creates a unique, poetic habitat that invites exploration, adaptability, and deeper connection with the natural world.

Technical information

One of the most distinctive aspects of the project is its modular design approach. The house is composed of several detachable units that can be customized to meet the individual preferences and spatial needs of its inhabitants. These components are connected using an intuitive magnetic system, drawing inspiration from magnetic construction toys. This playful yet practical approach provides maximum flexibility in both the initial assembly and potential future modifications or expansions of the living space. It allows residents to easily add, rearrange, or even exchange modules as their lifestyle evolves, making the house a dynamic, adaptable, and highly personalized structure.

In addition to being suitable for land-based placement, the building is also engineered to float on water, expanding its range of potential locations and offering a novel, immersive way of experiencing Iceland’s unique and diverse geography. The lightweight structure and intelligent construction system make it easy to transport the modules by car or trailer, enabling convenient relocation and encouraging a more nomadic, flexible lifestyle if desired by the users.

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