The design features a collection of small cabins integrated into the rugged landscape of Iceland, providing intimate accommodations for visitors looking to experience the allure of the Northern Lights. The cabins reflect the architecture of the region while fulfilling practical needs. Emphasizing a connection to nature, this design allows guests to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

Cabin Configuration

Each cabin is compact, containing a sitting area, a log burner, and a comfortable bed. The layout is designed to maximize views of the northern sky. This thoughtful arrangement fosters a relationship between the interior and the landscape outside. The cabins are elevated on a gabion foundation that is filled with local volcanic rock. This foundation provides stability against harsh weather while allowing for essential functions such as rainwater collection. It also maintains a minimal footprint, making it possible to relocate the cabins when needed for optimal viewing.

Interior Layout

The design includes different spatial arrangements that create various levels of privacy within each cabin. These features enhance the feeling of intimacy. A raised bedroom area focuses on an open skylight, allowing natural light to enter and brighten the space. An elongated headboard area surrounds the bed, reinforcing a cozy atmosphere. Using the log burner for heat, cooking, and ambient lighting creates a welcoming environment that couples indoor comfort with outdoor majesty.

Communal Space

Inspired by Viking longhouses, the communal area encourages socializing among guests. It includes a central kitchen and dining space and leads into a lounge with large windows allowing views of the lake and mountains. This orientation strengthens the connection between inside activities and the outside world. The design promotes community engagement, making it easy to share experiences while enjoying the beauty of the landscape.

Materials and Cultural Integration

Materials used in the cabins reflect the region's architectural heritage. Turfed roofs, birch plywood for interiors, and charred timber cladding resemble traditional turf houses. These choices enhance the buildings' visual appeal while ensuring they blend with the environment. The design also incorporates spaces for Icelandic horses, drawing from local culture and history to create a sense of place.

A large glazed wall in the communal area captures the changing colors of the landscape, allowing light to fill the space. This feature provides an ever-evolving backdrop, enriching the overall experience for guests as they connect with the surrounding natural beauty.