Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Biophilic Retreat Crafted from Local Birch and Enhanced with Green Roofs

Authors:
Sungsoo Kim, Seungkawng Baek, Kunhee Moon, Sinhee Kim
Biophilic Retreat Crafted from Local Birch and Enhanced with Green Roofs

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced birch timber and incorporating green roofing, the design offers an environmentally sensitive accommodation that harmonizes with Iceland's landscape while providing unobstructed views of the Northern Lights.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced birch timber for a low carbon footprint.
02
Incorporates bioremediation systems for sustainable water management.
03
Features flexible interior layouts that adapt to guest needs.
04
Employs solar panels for energy self-sufficiency.
05
Designed with green roofs to enhance insulation and biodiversity.
The Iceland Northern Lights Rooms project exemplifies contemporary architectural design, focusing on sustainability and integration with the surrounding landscape. This project is situated in Iceland’s dramatic terrain, offering unique lodging that emphasizes both comfort and environmental stewardship. The design features a series of individual guest houses that provide panoramic views of the natural surroundings, particularly the Northern Lights. The architecture reflects a careful balance between aesthetic appeal and functional living, catering to an eco-conscious clientele.

Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

The primary material used in the construction of the guest houses is birch tree timber, renowned for its sustainability and local availability. This choice promotes ecological responsibility and ensures minimal environmental impact. The design incorporates elements such as large glass windows to maximize natural lighting and frames the external landscape, enhancing guest immersion with the scenery. These windows also facilitate energy efficiency, which is crucial in maintaining an eco-friendly operation.

The project adopts a self-sufficient approach, featuring renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, to supply the necessary power for heating and lighting. Additionally, a bioremediation recycling treatment system is integrated to manage water usage effectively, further reinforcing the design's commitment to sustainability.

Innovative Spatial Layout and Functionality

The spatial organization of the project involves flexible floor plans that allow for dynamic use of space. Guests can configure their interior environments according to personal preferences, which enhances their overall experience. Designed to accommodate social interaction, each unit includes common areas, such as a communal seating space around a fireplace, without compromising privacy.

Unique design elements, such as the angular, folding roofs, not only mirror the natural contours of the landscape but also serve practical purposes, including rainfall management and snow load distribution. The overall architectural form is intentionally designed to harmonize with the surroundings, ensuring that the development does not disrupt the visual and ecological integrity of the Icelandic wilderness.

The Iceland Northern Lights Rooms project stands as a model of modern lodging that embraces ecological principles while delivering a comfortable and immersive experience for guests. Its commitment to local materials, sustainable building practices, and innovative design approaches distinguishes it within the realm of contemporary architecture. Explore the project presentation for architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural ideas that further illustrate this thoughtful integration of design and environment.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy