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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Unite in a Sustainable Retreat Emphasizing Celestial Connection

Authors:
Anna Caldana, Emanuele Crainich, Valentina Schiano
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Unite in a Sustainable Retreat Emphasizing Celestial Connection

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber create an eco-friendly accommodation designed to maximize views of the Northern Lights while fostering community engagement in a remote Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while reducing carbon footprint.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes internal space while optimizing views of the sky.
04
Modular unit configurations allow for flexible guest accommodation options.
05
Solar panels are integrated to ensure energy efficiency and sustainability on site.
The Lightbox project is an architectural endeavor situated in a remote part of Iceland that aims to provide a unique accommodation experience while preserving a close relationship with the surrounding environment. The design draws inspiration from the phenomenon of the Northern Lights, emphasizing transparency and engagement with the sky. The primary function of the project is to offer a comfortable retreat for visitors seeking an intimate interaction with nature. The structure comprises several modular units and communal facilities, carefully designed to accommodate both individual experiences and social gatherings.

The project is characterized by its thoughtful architectural layout, featuring small-scale guest accommodations dispersed across the site. Each unit provides essential amenities while maximizing views of the night sky through strategically placed large-glass panels that frame the auroras. The communal "Host House" serves as a central hub for guests, offering meals and activities, and fostering a sense of community among occupants.

Unique approaches in Lightbox include extensive use of natural materials, such as sustainably sourced wood and insulating materials that echo local building traditions. The integration of solar panels for energy efficiency highlights the project's commitment to sustainability while ensuring minimal environmental impact. The design also incorporates modularity, allowing for flexible usage of space and adaptability to varying guest needs. This modular approach differentiates Lightbox from typical hotel developments by prioritizing a connection to the landscape and enhancing the overall experience of the site.

Another significant aspect of the Lightbox project is its focus on wellness and communal interaction. The inclusion of open communal spaces, such as the Northern Light Hub, is designed to enhance the guest experience and facilitate connection. Elements such as shared dining areas encourage social engagement while also serving as gathering points for guests to enjoy the atmospheric phenomena together.

The architectural design also considers climate resilience, ensuring that the materials and construction methods used can withstand the harsh weather conditions typical of the Icelandic landscape. The project's layout takes advantage of the landscape’s topography, providing natural windbreaks and enhancing user comfort.

For further insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and specific architectural designs of the Lightbox project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Detailed documentation reveals the nuanced architectural ideas embedded within the design, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of this unique accommodation within an awe-inspiring natural context.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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