Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Cabins Designed for Aurora Viewing in Iceland

Authors:
Eric Der, Mohamed Ismail, Phil Miller, Del Hepler
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Cabins Designed for Aurora Viewing in Iceland

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles that blend into the Icelandic landscape, this collection of timber cabins provides a comfortable setting for guests to experience the enchanting Northern Lights.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins are constructed with charred wooden shingles to enhance weather resistance and integrate with the landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability while reducing construction waste.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space and improves views of the night sky.
04
Strategically positioned windows ensure unobstructed sightlines for aurora viewing.
05
Community spaces are designed to encourage social interaction without compromising privacy.
The "Iceland Northern Lights Rooms" is an architectural project designed to provide accommodations for visitors wishing to experience the Northern Lights in an immersive natural setting. Located in Iceland, the project is characterized by a thoughtful blend of structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, ensuring functionality while enhancing the viewer's connection to the surrounding landscape.

The project serves a dual purpose: it offers comfortable lodging while prioritizing optimal viewing conditions for the auroras. The cabins are strategically positioned to maximize sightlines, taking advantage of the site's topography and the natural beauty of the Icelandic environment. This approach enhances the overall guest experience, allowing for both private reflection and communal appreciation of the natural phenomenon.

Sustainable design strategies are evident in the choice of materials and the layout of the project. The primary materials—wood, concrete, glass, and metal—are selected not only for their durability in Iceland’s harsh climate but also for their minimal environmental impact. The use of glass in large, strategically placed windows focuses attention on the sky, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

Architectural Design Innovations

The design of the "Iceland Northern Lights Rooms" features unique elements that set it apart from conventional lodging facilities in similar regions. The rooflines and angles are deliberately chosen to emulate the natural forms of the landscape while facilitating rain and snow runoff. This design decision incorporates the principles of sustainability, ensuring maintenance is easy while also influencing visual interest.

Interior spaces are efficiently configured for optimal utility. Rooms are designed with a focus on multifunctionality, allowing various layouts for personal or group use. The aesthetics within the cabins promote comfort, using warm wood finishes that resonate with the surrounding environment. Additionally, communal spaces, including shared terraces and dining areas, encourage social interaction and collaborative experiences among guests, further enhancing the overall nature-centric atmosphere.

Integration with Natural Landscape

Thoughtful site planning underpins the architecture of the project. Each cabin is carefully arranged to ensure that guests have unobstructed views of the auroras. This spatial arrangement fosters an immersive experience, allowing occupants to feel a deeper connection with the natural phenomena occurring overhead. The outdoor amenities are also designed to accommodate gatherings for viewing parties or quiet reflection.

Overall, the design of the "Iceland Northern Lights Rooms" emphasizes a harmonious relationship between architecture and the environment. The project exemplifies a commitment to sustainability, functionality, and user experience, marking a progressive approach to eco-friendly tourism in the region. Readers interested in understanding more about the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that influenced this project are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation for further insights.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy