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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Glass Create a Versatile Observation Space for Northern Lights

Authors:
Farah Elmajdoub, Mariam Elzein
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Glass Create a Versatile Observation Space for Northern Lights
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Combining charred wooden shingles and expansive glass elements, the design facilitates immersive viewing of the Northern Lights while providing adaptable spaces that encourage community interaction and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both durability and a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural flexibility and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design enhances views of the Northern Lights from all angles.
04
Rooftop access features a heated lounge area for year-round use.
05
A reflecting pool amplifies the visual experience of the auroras.

### Project Overview

Located in a northern or polar region, the "Light Frame" project is designed to optimize the experience of viewing the Northern Lights. Its architectural concept facilitates a direct connection between indoor spaces and the surrounding natural environment, allowing visitors to enjoy the aurora borealis while providing a range of amenities for relaxation and social interaction. The design intent centers on creating flexible spaces that can adapt to the users' preferences, enhancing their engagement with the landscape.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction

The floor plan comprises a series of interconnected volumes that include private cabins, communal lounges, and outdoor terraces. Large openings and retractable walls facilitate transparency and the infiltration of natural elements into the interior spaces. A distinctive feature is the fully accessible rooftop patio, designed for unobstructed views of the sky, allowing guests to experience the Northern Lights in comfort. This layout promotes versatile use of space, enabling users to transition between private and communal areas, thus fostering social connections and individual reflection.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choice plays a crucial role in the project’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. Structural elements utilize steel for strength and stability, while wood is incorporated in decking and interior finishes to offer warmth. Aluminum window frames and sliding glass doors enhance views and durability against the elements, and extensive use of glass maximizes natural light entry. A thermal reflecting pool contributes both visually and environmentally, mirroring the sky above and enriching the overall sensory experience. This thoughtful selection of materials emphasizes sustainability, ensuring that the structure is resilient while harmonizing with its stunning natural context.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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