Project: Big Little Rock House
Architecture: Minarc
Consultants: Erla Dögg Ingjaldsdottir, Tryggvi Thorsteinsson
Location: Bláskógabyggð, Biskupstungur, Iceland
Size: 1,000 sq. feet
Photo Credits: Art Gray Photo
Big Little Rock House by Minarc is a modest, eco-conscious home designed to harmonize with the stunning Icelandic landscape. Whether serving as a vacation retreat or a year-round residence, this home is crafted for simplicity and ease of living, deeply integrating with its natural surroundings.
Design Philosophy and Material Use
The design of Big Little Rock House focuses on functionality while creating a healthy living environment for the family. Minarc prioritized using natural materials in their most organic forms, including concrete, wood, and glass, to unify the structure with its environment. These materials help the home blend seamlessly into the landscape, reflecting the natural surroundings. Drawing inspiration from traditional Icelandic architecture, the design incorporates elements like mud house forms and sod roofs and walls, which give the home a solid, grounded presence.
Sustainability and Connection with Nature
The project minimizes its impact on the natural ground by carefully selecting materials that resonate with the environment. Minarc uses recycled materials, such as rubber tires repurposed for the kitchen wall, showcasing their commitment to sustainability. Large, expansive windows and strategically placed openings throughout the living area allow natural light to flood the home. These features illuminate the interior and frame the breathtaking landscape, enhancing the seamless connection between indoor spaces and nature.
Seasonal Experiences
Big Little Rock House’s design ensures that residents experience the beauty of Icelandic nature throughout the year. The extensive use of glass allows the home to be bathed in endless sunlight during the summer. In the winter, the Northern Lights and the brightness of the snow fill the interior with natural light, even during the long, dark days. This design allows nature to become an integral part of the living experience, making the outdoors feel like an extension of the indoor space.
Minarc’s Big Little Rock House demonstrates how thoughtful design and sustainable practices can create a home that respects and celebrates its natural environment.
