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Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Framing the Northern Lights With Sustainable Materials

Authors:
Christopher Boon, Michaela Kleinhans
Cross-Laminated Timber Retreat Framing the Northern Lights With Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

With its cross-laminated timber framework and expansive glazing that captures the vibrant hues of the Northern Lights, the retreat offers a harmonious blend of sustainability and breathtaking natural beauty for a unique immersive living experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
The retreat features large expanses of glazing that allow for unobstructed views of the Northern Lights while providing natural light throughout the day.
02
Cross-laminated timber is utilized for its structural integrity and sustainability, enhancing the project's ecological footprint.
03
A bent A-frame design not only adds aesthetic appeal but also improves snow management and wind resistance.
04
Charred wooden shingles are employed to enhance durability while blending the building with its natural surroundings.
05
The modular arrangement of living spaces allows for flexible use and adaptability to varied needs of visitors.
The architectural design project under analysis represents a thoughtful integration of space, nature, and human experience. Located in a region where the mesmerizing phenomena of the Northern Lights can be observed, this design intends to create a retreat that fosters a deeper connection between inhabitants and their surroundings. The architecture effectively embodies the dual purpose of providing comfortable living accommodations while also offering a unique vantage point for viewing one of nature's most spectacular displays.

Functionally, the project serves as a retreat where individuals can immerse themselves in an environment that promotes relaxation and reflection. It is designed to accommodate diverse uses, ranging from individual stay experiences to communal gatherings, enhancing social interactions among residents and visitors. The architectural design hinges on the idea of framing the extraordinary views of the auroras, enabling acclimatization to the landscape while ensuring comfort and warmth indoors.

Key architectural elements include large glass panels that maximize the influx of natural light and provide unobstructed views of the sky above. The thoughtful placement of these openings blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting the shimmering colors of the Northern Lights to become part of the living environment. The orientation of the building is another critical aspect of its design, where specific angles and configurations respond to natural elements such as wind and snow, enhancing its resilience and performance.

The choice of materials throughout the project is particularly noteworthy. Durable exterior metal walls not only offer protection against harsh climatic conditions but also contribute to a contemporary aesthetic that harmonizes with the natural surroundings. Timber framing is used to create a welcoming interior atmosphere, providing warmth and texture that complements the primarily modern materials. Concrete foundations are selected for their stability, ensuring the longevity of the structure, while green roofs enhance ecological sustainability and integrate seamlessly with the landscape.

One of the more unique design approaches is the modular aspect of the architecture, which allows for flexibility in how spaces are utilized. This modularity enables the configuration of units to be adjusted based on the needs of different occupants, promoting a versatile use of space that aligns with varying group sizes or activities. This adaptive quality not only respects the natural flow of the environment but also reinforces the ethos of creating spaces that can grow and evolve.

Additionally, the design prioritizes sustainability with considerations such as energy efficiency and the use of locally sourced materials, ensuring a smaller ecological footprint. These deliberate design choices underscore a modern understanding of responsible architecture, where environmental concerns are addressed through innovative solutions.

The relationship between architectural form and its environmental context fosters a sense of harmony, making the building an integral part of the landscape rather than an imposition upon it. Visitors to the project can experience not only a comfortable dwelling but also a dialogue between the built environment and the breathtaking natural phenomena occurring just outside their windows.

For those interested in further exploring this project, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs reveal the meticulous thought that went into each aspect of the architecture. Engaging with these elements will provide a fuller understanding of the architectural ideas that shaped this design, highlighting how functionality and beauty can coexist in a thoughtful and meaningful way. This project ultimately stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to not only shelter but also inspire and awaken a sense of wonder within those who experience it.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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
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