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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create Sustainable Lodgings for Aurora Viewing

Author:
Hao Zhang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create Sustainable Lodgings for Aurora Viewing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design offers adaptable lodging tailored for optimal views of the Northern lights in a sustainable manner.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features movable units that allow for customizable room configurations based on guest preferences.
03
Incorporates traditional turf roofs that provide natural insulation and blend into the landscape.
04
Integrates solar panels into the structure for energy efficiency and sustainability.
05
Includes large glazed roof sections for unobstructed views of the Northern lights.

## Project Overview

Located in Iceland, the Northern Lights Rooms project is designed to enhance the unique experience of the surrounding landscape while offering modern amenities. The intent is to create a comfortable indoor environment that allows guests to engage with the stunning vistas and natural phenomena, particularly the visual spectacle of the Northern Lights. The design prioritizes both ecological sensitivity and the integration of built spaces with the unspoiled terrain.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout of the Northern Lights Rooms is informed by the geographical contours of the site, promoting optimal solar exposure and visibility of the night sky. Individual rooms are strategically clustered around communal spaces to balance privacy with opportunities for social interaction. Thoughtfully designed pathways connect indoor and outdoor areas, fostering a continuous relationship with the natural environment. Movable bedroom units add flexibility, allowing guests to adapt their accommodations based on preferences and seasonal conditions, while dual-use spaces facilitate both community involvement and personal retreat.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Material selection plays a crucial role in harmonizing the project with its harsh, exposed environment. Traditional turf roofs provide natural insulation, while glazed roof sections allow natural light to penetrate and enhance views of the sky. Innovative thermal insulation ensures energy efficiency, vital for occupant comfort in extreme weather. The building incorporates solar panels into its walls, underscoring a commitment to sustainability and energy autonomy. The diverse range of room sizes caters to various clientele, from solo travelers to small groups, further enhancing the project's responsiveness to guest needs.

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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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