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Charred Wooden Shingles and Passive Solar Techniques Enhance Nordic Cabins for Auroral Viewing

Authors:
Christine Varela, Oscar Maradiaga
Charred Wooden Shingles and Passive Solar Techniques Enhance Nordic Cabins for Auroral Viewing
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, these Nordic cabins are designed for optimal auroral viewing while providing a comfortable and sustainable accommodation experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins utilize charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic integration.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels promote rapid construction and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes both structural integrity and views of the Northern Lights.
04
Each cabin is strategically positioned along a pathway to foster community interaction while maintaining privacy.
05
Passive solar techniques are incorporated for energy efficiency and comfort in cold seasons.

### Project Overview
The "Iceland Northern Lights" project comprises a collection of guest cabins and a dining hall designed to enhance the experience of observing the Northern Lights. Situated in a remote and striking Icelandic landscape, the project emphasizes sustainability and functionality while maintaining a connection to the surrounding environment.

#### Design Concept
The architectural design underscores a balance between the built structures and their natural context. Each cabin accommodates private spaces while fostering a sense of community among guests. Configured to be self-sufficient, the cabins feature designated zones for sleeping, bathing, and cooking, optimizing comfort and accessibility.

Architecturally, the cabins are inspired by Iceland's rugged terrain, characterized by angular roofs that evoke the nearby mountains. These forms not only allow for abundant natural light but also frame views of the horizon, providing guests with an optimal vantage point for viewing the auroras.

#### Material Selection
The project's material choices reflect a commitment to environmental sustainability. Timber serves as the primary building material, aligning with traditional Icelandic construction methods. Copper roofing not only adds aesthetic value as it develops a natural patina over time but also enhances durability. Large glass windows are strategically placed to maximize views of the Northern Lights and the surrounding landscape, while high-performance insulation ensures energy efficiency during colder months.

This careful selection of materials not only fulfills functional needs but also contributes to the overall architectural language, striking a balance between contemporary design and local vernacular.

#### Spatial Organization
The spatial arrangement of the site is meticulously planned. The guest cabins are situated along a wooden walkway, consisting of two larger cabins and four smaller ones, accommodating a total of twenty guests. Each unit provides privacy while ensuring accessibility to communal areas.

The dining hall, positioned centrally along the walkway, serves as a hub for social interaction. Its high ceilings and expansive windows create a welcoming environment for guests to dine while enjoying panoramic views. The host residence is located nearby to support operational functions, allowing for efficient management and service delivery.

Substantial attention has been given to the local climate, employing passive solar design principles to optimize natural light usage throughout the year. The roofs are engineered to withstand heavy snow loads while minimizing maintenance requirements. The layout encourages guest interaction while promoting personal retreat, illustrating a thoughtful approach to social dynamics and flexibility for potential future expansions.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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