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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Panels Create a Retreat Designed for Northern Lights Experiences

Authors:
Chiara Fiorindo, Fjolla Sllovinja, Philip jonathan Kolevsohn
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Panels Create a Retreat Designed for Northern Lights Experiences

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the retreat seamlessly integrates into the Icelandic landscape, providing an intimate setting for guests to experience the Northern Lights in comfort.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for improved insulation and strength.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame architecture to optimize views of the Northern Lights.
04
Incorporates locally sourced materials to reinforce environmental sustainability.
05
Combines private lodging units with communal spaces to foster social interaction.
Aurora Ranch is an architectural project located in rural Iceland, designed as a retreat that centers on the Northern Lights experience. This facility integrates various functional spaces while promoting interaction between guests and the surrounding landscape. The design concept emphasizes a balance of communal and private areas, allowing for an immersive engagement with nature.

The project is composed of a central communal building that includes shared kitchen and living spaces, creating a warm environment for socialization. Adjacent to this communal area are private lodging units strategically located to maximize views of the Northern Lights. Each unit is designed for couples or small families, facilitating comfortable and intimate atmospheres while also providing easy access to outdoor amenities such as a sauna and an outdoor steam bath.

Unique Design Approaches

The architectural design of Aurora Ranch focuses on harmonizing with the environment, reflecting Icelandic vernacular architecture. It utilizes locally sourced materials such as timber panels for structural and aesthetic warmth, reinforcing a connection with the local context. The building’s composition minimizes its visual impact on the rugged landscape, following natural contours to blend seamlessly into the surrounding terrain.

The layout prioritizes public areas at the center, promoting social interaction, while private lodging units radiate outward, fostering a sense of retreat. Large glass windows are strategically placed, serving dual functions of providing ample natural light and framing spectacular night views of the auroras, thereby making the architectural experience central to its purpose.

Sustainability is an integral consideration within the design, as it incorporates locally available building materials and efficient thermal insulation to ensure comfort during harsh weather conditions. These aspects allow the project to maintain a low environmental footprint while enhancing thermal efficiency.

Architectural Details and Functionality

The building utilizes a mix of architectural styles that reflect the natural forms of the surrounding landscape. The communal area resembles traditional Nordic longhouses, while private units incorporate more modern design elements. The integration of high-performance thermal insulation and reinforced structures addresses regional climatic challenges such as wind and snow loads.

Detailed architectural plans and sections reveal the careful consideration of spatial relationships and functionality, ensuring that each area supports the overall mission of the project. The layout provides guests with an unobstructed view of the stunning natural phenomenon, making the experience of the Northern Lights not just an addition but a core aspect of the architecture itself.

For those interested in further exploring the dynamics of Aurora Ranch, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, a detailed presentation is available that offers deeper insights into this thoughtfully designed project and its unique architectural ideas.
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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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