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Curved Timber Structures Enhanced by Weathered Copper Reflecting the Northern Lights

Authors:
Ben Staves, Kelly Mackinnon
Curved Timber Structures Enhanced by Weathered Copper Reflecting the Northern Lights
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Curved timber forms are complemented by weathered copper, providing unobstructed views of the Aurora Borealis while offering guests a unique accommodation experience in Iceland’s natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved timber structures enhance structural stability while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Weathered copper cladding is used to reflect the surrounding landscape and blend with natural elements.
03
Semi-translucent polycarbonate roofs allow natural light while maintaining thermal insulation.
04
Individual light rooms offer unobstructed views of the aurora from every angle.
05
The layout promotes both communal interaction and private reflection in a remote setting.

### Project Overview
Located in Iceland, Álfheimr is a conceptual architectural project designed to integrate human habitation with the spectacle of the Aurora Borealis. The design seeks to provide unique accommodations that enhance visitors’ experiences of this natural phenomenon, while also fostering a deeper appreciation of its cultural and environmental significance.

### Architectural Form and Spatial Organization
The central structure, referred to as "The House," serves as a hub for both communal and private living spaces across two levels. This includes changing rooms, saunas, dining facilities, and public viewing areas, all arranged to facilitate efficient movement and varied interactions among guests. Multiple scattered accommodation pods, known as Light Rooms, are designed as semi-transparent structures. Their organic forms and strategic placement offer unobstructed views of the night sky, creating intimate settings for experiencing the auroras.

### Materiality and Construction Techniques
The project incorporates materials chosen for their environmental performance and aesthetic appeal. Semi-translucent insulated polycarbonate roof panels allow for natural illumination and thermal comfort, while a timber frame structure supports the curved architecture that harmonizes with the landscape. Weathered copper cladding on The House reflects colors reminiscent of the auroras, and a concrete raft foundation provides stability while minimizing disruption to the site. Each material is selected to ensure resilience against the harsh Icelandic climate while promoting sustainability.

The design emphasizes open interior spaces that maximize natural light and enhance the overall visitor experience. Public areas are oriented for optimal views of the auroras, inviting guests to partake in a communal yet reflective atmosphere. Facilities for dining and relaxation further support a connection to the surrounding natural environment, establishing Álfheimr as a thoughtful response to its setting.

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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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