curro cardenal's photo series captures isolated homes scattered onto iceland's rugged land

Solitary Homes in the Icelandic Wilderness

Curro Cardenal’s photographic series captures the isolated homes scattered across Iceland’s dramatic landscape, reflecting the independence and resilience of the Icelandic people. These solitary structures blend into the rugged terrain, emphasizing the relationship between human habitation and the harsh natural environment. The homes are often found in remote locations, set against the backdrop of volcanic craters, glaciers, fjords, black sand beaches, and the aurora borealis, encapsulating the essence of Iceland’s contrasting geography.

While two-thirds of Iceland’s population resides in urban areas, the presence of isolated homes throughout the countryside offers a striking contrast. These modest residences can often be found in locations seemingly chosen for their remoteness, reflecting the deep connection between the people and the land. The homes are built with practicality, adapting to the challenges posed by Iceland’s extreme climate and unique geographical features. The design of these small, inconspicuous houses integrates into the landscape, harmonizing with the natural surroundings.

all images by Curro Cardenal

Curro Cardenal’s Exploration of Iceland’s Nature

The series highlights the photographer‘s reflections on encountering this unusual scenery —‘Why in the unlimited possibilities of land did they pick this particular spot? Why did they build such small homes when they could expand throughout the land? If these were summer homes, wouldn’t they prefer to spend time socializing with others after a long winter instead of being secluded? And perhaps the biggest question of all, how on earth do they get their groceries?’

Living in Iceland requires cultivating a deep reverent relationship with the land. The country’s extreme climate—featuring volatile storms, long winters with little daylight, and summers of 24-hour sunlight—necessitates resilience and adaptability. The unpredictability of Iceland’s weather is a defining factor for its inhabitants, who face natural forces with calm stoicism. This close relationship with nature is reflected in the design and placement of these homes, which prioritize functionality and integration with the environment.

Curro Cardenal captures isolated homes scattered across Iceland’s dramatic landscape

Icelanders’ embrace of Isolation

The use of local materials and minimal design allows these homes to sit naturally within the vast and unspoiled landscape. Their placement offers a continuous connection to the surrounding beauty, inviting residents to engage with the grandeur of their environment. The isolation of these homes is a reflection of the Icelandic way of life—rooted in a deep respect for nature and a desire for solitude. In this landscape, these homes symbolize a balance between the extremes of Icelandic weather and the peace found in its natural beauty.

The design of these structures reflects the Icelanders’ protective attitude towards nature, preserving the purity of their surroundings while creating spaces for reflection and retreat. Cardenal’s images emphasize the harmony between the isolated homes and their environment, capturing the unique coexistence between human life and the formidable forces of Iceland’s natural world.

remote homes are set against volcanic craters, glaciers, and black sand beaches, embodying Iceland’s geography

built in remote locations, the homes reflect a deep connection between people and the land

these solitary structures blend into the rugged terrain, showcasing resilience and independence

the homes reflect the calm stoicism with which Icelanders face unpredictable natural forces

isolated homes symbolize a balance between extreme weather and natural peace

project info:

name: Isolated Icelandic Homes
photography: Curro Cardenal Captures | @curro_cardenal

collaborator: Kim Sandoval

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom