Ice House / Minarc

Ice House / Minarc - Bed, Bedroom, Windows, BeamIce House / Minarc - Facade, GardenIce House / Minarc - Deck, HandrailIce House / Minarc - Table, Lighting, Windows, Chair, BeamIce House / Minarc - More Images+ 3

Reykjavik, Iceland

To create a serene family sanctuary that harmoniously connects inhabitants with the surrounding natural environment, while combining the best sustainable, eco- friendly materials and energy efficient technologies with minimalist architectural design. 

Ice House / Minarc - Table, Lighting, Windows, Chair, Beam
© Torfi Agnarsson

Some features of the house:

Ice House / Minarc - Table, Chair, Countertop, Windows
© Torfi Agnarsson

  • 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom plus loft.
  • Simple eco-conscious design focuses on functionality and creates a healthy living environment for the family. 
  • The house is located in the beautiful a rural town of Iceland, a low- developed region committed to the preservation of its beautiful natural scenery and resources.
  • Design elements were chosen carefully to maximize passive solar power and cross ventilation, minimizing electricity costs.
  • Conscious effort made to use materials in their most organic form.
  • To improve indoor air quality, no carpet or forced air systems (AC/HV) utilized.
  • The project reduces its impact on the natural ground by raising the structure with elevated decks and floors.
  • Native wood siding materials are locally sourced, which allows for the project to blend in with the surrounding regional landscape.
  • Large and expansive windows and openings are used in living area and bedrooms to provide abundant natural light, frame the beautiful landscape and enable a seamless connection with nature.
  • Master bathroom features a pebble rock wall referencing the surrounding landscape.
  • Exterior spaces designed for maximum indoor-outdoor living.
  • Outdoor shower encourages a closer connection to nature and the elements.
  • An edible garden is incorporated into the exterior design to foster sustainable living. 

Ice House / Minarc - Facade, Garden
© Torfi Agnarsson

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About this office
Cite: "Ice House / Minarc" 30 Jul 2012. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/258160/ice-house-minarc> ISSN 0719-8884

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