Eagles Dream, the new Kebony project in the magnificent Icelandic tundra

Resting on concrete columns and utilizing sustainably sourced Kebony wood cladding, the new home's architecture reflects the cascading mountain ridges that surround the property, while offering an open plan and a series of large bay windows that open the interior to the dramatic panoramic views of the ice-blue waters, greenery, and peaks stretching in all directions.

The discovery of a single eagle feather on the site highlighted the rich wildlife in the vicinity of the house and inspired the design of the house. As its designer, G. Jonsson, describes it, "The main idea for the house, elevated above nature, was to capture the essence of an eagle that has landed, ready to soar back into the landscape." In a commitment to preserving nature, no dynamite was used during the construction of the site. Concrete columns were built into the earth foundations and serve to elevate the house above the ground, allowing local wildlife to circulate beneath.

Eager to showcase a durable material that also maintains a natural aesthetic appearance, designer Gudmundur Jonsson chose Kebony Clear wood for the cladding of the trapezoidal formation. “Kebony offers a stable material that develops an optimal patina as it ages. It was important to have low-maintenance cladding on the house, which made Kebony Clear the perfect choice,” comments Jonsson.

Developed in Norway, Kebony transforms fast-growing FSC-certified softwoods using a bio-based double modification process, preventing deforestation of tropical timber and limiting the environmental impact of the global construction industry. The patented Kebony® technology permanently modifies sustainable softwoods, such as pine, into products with improved dimensional stability, durability, and strength, ensuring longevity and a high level of safety. In addition to Kebony's enhanced structural qualities, it is also a weather-resistant material, making it ideal for withstanding Iceland's weather conditions without requiring maintenance.

The natural finish of the Kebony wood also blends effortlessly into the Snæfellsnes landscape, creating a seamless connection between the house and nature. Over time, the wood's patina changes from a rich brown color to a unique silvery gray, blending in with the surrounding natural landscape. The wood cladding continues inside the house, providing a sense of continuity between the interior and exterior. The walls of the house are adorned with pine veneer, pre-treated to match the Kebony Clear wood applied to the exterior facade, making the wooden elements of the house seamless. The floors and bathroom walls are clad in Icelandic bluestone (Blágrýti), further establishing a material connection between the house and its surroundings.

Reflecting on the project, Nina Landbø, Sales Director at Kebony Export, comments: “Eagles Dream is an exceptional demonstration of Kebony’s commitment to preserving the natural landscape while creating a unique, modern design that will last for many years to come.”