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Curvilinear Glass Facades and Sustainable Wood Integration Design for Northern Lights Viewing Center

Authors:
Ulises Salas Alzogaray, Agustina Gonzalez Inigo
Curvilinear Glass Facades and Sustainable Wood Integration Design for Northern Lights Viewing Center

Project in-detail

Curvilinear glass facades reflect the dynamic movements of the northern lights while the sustainable wood structure provides a multi-functional space for community engagement and seasonal activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design mimics the movement of northern lights for enhanced visual connection.
02
Large glass facades promote natural light while framing panoramic landscape views.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity and thermal efficiency.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer durability and a unique aesthetic finish.
05
Integrated viewing platforms maximize opportunities for outdoor engagement with nature.
Vittan is an architectural project located in Iceland that emphasizes a seamless integration with its surrounding environment, specifically designed to interact with the natural phenomenon of the northern lights. The building's form mimics the fluidity of light and integrates with the rugged topography. This connection between architecture and landscape is a defining aspect of the design, promoting sustainable practices through careful material selection and passive environmental strategies.

Unique Morphology and Functionality
Vittan features a distinctive curvilinear structure that not only serves aesthetic purposes but also enhances functionality. The design incorporates large glass facades that provide expansive views of the surrounding landscape, allowing users to experience the northern lights within a comfortable indoor setting. The project operates as a multi-functional space, accommodating various community activities throughout the year. Its seasonal adaptability enables it to serve as a ski center in winter, transforming into a cultural hub during other months. The interactive spaces include platforms specifically designed for aurora viewing, reinforcing the building's relationship with its natural context.

Sustainable and Contextual Materiality
The materials used in Vittan emphasize sustainability and durability, essential traits for a building situated in Iceland's challenging climate. Wood is utilized for structural elements, fostering warmth and integrating with the natural landscape. Steel elements provide stability and support, while concrete serves essential structural functions. The judicious use of insulation materials ensures thermal efficiency, which is critical in this geographic location. This careful selection of materials not only aligns with the project's environmental goals but also highlights the architectural design's commitment to a harmonious relationship with nature.

The architectural plans and sections illustrate the intricacy of the design, showcasing how the building forms a dialogue with its environment. This connection to nature is fundamental to Vittan's identity, setting it apart from conventional structures. For a deeper understanding of the project's architectural ideas and design outcomes, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of Vittan, focusing on its architectural plans, sections, and overall design approach.
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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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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