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Charred Wood Shingles and Geothermal Solutions in a Nature-Integrated Observation Retreat

Authors:
Antoine Godin, Maria Gonzalez, Maxime Pelletier
Charred Wood Shingles and Geothermal Solutions in a Nature-Integrated Observation Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood shingles and a design optimized for aurora viewing, the retreat utilizes geothermal systems to enhance comfort while providing a serene space for observation and relaxation in Iceland's distinctive landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and reduce carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that facilitates natural light capture and panoramic views.
04
Integrates geothermal energy systems to provide sustainable heating throughout the year.
05
Prioritizes aurora visibility with strategic positioning and open interior layouts.

### Overview
The Norðurljósí Observatory is located in Iceland's diverse terrain and is designed to provide an immersive experience of the northern lights. The project prioritizes the relationship between visitors and the surrounding landscape, integrating architectural form with a commitment to environmental sustainability. The intent of the design is to enhance the user experience while fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment.

### Spatial Configuration
The observatory comprises distinct structures, including a public building, spa, host's house, and personal cabins, all arranged along a carefully planned pathway. Each unit is tailored to its specific site and purpose, promoting exploration and contemplation. Internal layouts emphasize openness and natural light, with spaces strategically oriented to optimize views of the northern lights. The cabins are designed for intimacy, featuring large windows that connect indoor comfort with the outdoor landscape. The centralized public building serves as a communal hub, facilitating interaction among guests while embodying a sense of community in a remote location.

### Material Selection
The choice of materials reflects Iceland's natural aesthetics and climatic conditions. Concrete provides stability for structural elements, while glass enhances visibility and light entry, offering unobstructed views of the auroras. Steel allows for expansive spans, contributing to a contemporary design. Natural insulation materials are selected to promote geothermal energy efficiency, ensuring warmth during the region's cold winters. This thoughtful materiality aligns with the environmental context and modern construction practices, facilitating a balanced relationship between built forms and nature.

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

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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

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