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Corten Steel Framing and Gabion Walls Create Elevated Guest Accommodations for Aurora Viewing

Author:
Bryan Hicks
Corten Steel Framing and Gabion Walls Create Elevated Guest Accommodations for Aurora Viewing

Project in-detail

Constructed with Corten steel and gabion walls, this project offers movable guest accommodations designed for optimal Aurora Borealis viewing against the backdrop of Iceland's rugged landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with Corten steel for durability and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Gabion walls utilize local volcanic rock, enhancing the project's regional connection.
03
Movable guest rooms allow for adaptable placement based on seasonal conditions.
04
Large windows are strategically positioned for optimal views of the Aurora Borealis.
05
A communal space features a wood stove, fostering social interaction among guests.
The Iceland Northern Lights Rooms project is an architectural endeavor situated in the unique landscape of Iceland. It consists of a series of movable guest accommodations designed to optimize the viewing experience of the Northern Lights while maintaining minimal disruption to the environment. Each guest room is constructed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, utilizing locally sourced materials that reflect the region's geological characteristics.

The primary function of this project is to provide guests with comfortable lodging that emphasizes connection to the landscape and the phenomena of the Aurora Borealis. The arrangement of eight individual guest rooms creates a pathway that encourages exploration of both the built environment and the natural setting. Additionally, the project includes a communal dining and gathering space, serving as a hub for interaction among guests.

The architecture demonstrates a highly considered approach to site-specific design. Each room features large, strategically placed windows offering unobstructed views of the night sky, allowing guests to fully experience the Northern Lights from the comfort of their accommodations. The integration of movable structures offers flexibility in positioning, allowing for adaptability to changing environmental conditions while maintaining the integrity of the site.

Materiality plays a critical role in this project. The use of Corten steel for cladding provides durability and a weathered aesthetic that harmonizes with the volcanic landscape. Gabion walls filled with native rock serve both a structural purpose and emphasize the regional context. The incorporation of local timber in the interior spaces adds warmth and aligns with sustainable practices, utilizing resources that are readily available.

Sustainability is a central theme in the design strategy. The structures are equipped with mineral wool insulation, which contributes to energy efficiency in the harsh Icelandic climate. Green roof systems enhance thermal performance and promote local vegetation, further minimizing the environmental footprint of the project.

The Iceland Northern Lights Rooms project stands out due to its innovative design principles that prioritize environmental integration and guest experience. The movable nature of the guest accommodations, combined with their careful placement and construction, establishes a unique architectural response that is specific to its setting. The communal gathering area not only serves practical needs but fosters social interaction among guests, enhancing the overall experience.

For a deeper exploration of this project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to review the full presentation of the Iceland Northern Lights Rooms. This project showcases a balanced approach to modern architecture while respecting the natural environment, making it a pertinent study in contemporary lodging design.
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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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