Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Celestial Retreat Crafted With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wood Shingles

Authors:
Tania Gebauer, Eugenio Ortuzar, Eugenio Ortuzar, Beltran Lihn, Roberto Astete
Celestial Retreat Crafted With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wood Shingles

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels and charred wood shingles, this retreat emphasizes a connection to the Northern Lights while providing a unique accommodation experience in a remote natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light while minimizing material waste.
04
Underground guest rooms immerse visitors in the landscape while maintaining comfort.
05
Terraces are strategically positioned for optimal stargazing and aurora viewing.

### Overview

Located in a remote area renowned for its clear views of the Northern Lights, the project focuses on creating an immersive experience that fosters a connection between inhabitants and the natural environment. The design philosophy resonates with celestial phenomena, particularly the Aurora Borealis and the starry night sky, aiming to integrate architectural elements with the surrounding landscape.

### Spatial Strategy and Organization

The site layout comprises distinct zones designed to enhance user experience. Public areas, private guest quarters, and communal facilities are arranged in circular configurations that evoke patterns of natural constellations. The visitor center serves as a central hub for social interaction, encouraging communal engagement and orienting guests toward the sky. Its circular form symbolizes unity, while the design employs locally sourced materials such as timber and grass, promoting insulation and ecological harmony.

Private guest zones are situated underground, promoting a deeper immersion in the natural surroundings while maintaining modern conveniences. These spaces utilize earth and eco-friendly materials for insulation and feature large openings that facilitate natural light, maintaining a visual connection to the outside environment. Additionally, the guest area includes durable, weather-resistant tents constructed from translucent waterproof fabric and polymer insulation, allowing unobstructed views of the night sky. The terraces are designed for optimal celestial observation, integrating seating arrangements that invite exploration and engagement with the universe.

### Sustainability and Cultural Integration

The project prioritizes ecological sensitivity, utilizing sustainable building practices and materials that align with local environmental characteristics. Architectural elements draw inspiration from traditional regional structures, creating a dialogue between historical context and contemporary design. This approach not only enhances the cultural significance of the site but also supports the local ecosystem. Furthermore, the design promotes stargazing and observation of the Northern Lights, establishing its appeal as a destination for both astronomy enthusiasts and nature admirers.

Incorporating these principles, the architectural forms reflect the natural topography, reinforcing the overarching theme of a "natural constellation." The result is a cohesive environment where the architecture and landscape coexist, elevating the experience of visitors while fostering a profound appreciation for the night sky.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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