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Curvilinear Structure With Engineered Wood and Skylights Embracing Iceland's Northern Lights

Authors:
Michael Silvester, Dolapo Beckley, Syeda Fatima
Curvilinear Structure With Engineered Wood and Skylights Embracing Iceland's Northern Lights

Project in-detail

A curvilinear form constructed with engineered wood and large glass panels allows for an immersive experience of Iceland's Northern Lights while providing a comfortable retreat for guests.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design maximizes views of the Northern Lights.
02
Constructed with engineered wood for enhanced sustainability.
03
Large glass panels blur the transition between indoors and outdoors.
04
The outdoor terrace seamlessly connects with the communal dining area.
05
Strategic skylights illuminate living spaces with natural light.

The Aurora Hideaway project encompasses two distinct architectural designs, Mainstay Manor and Infinity Pod. These structures aim to blend modern living with the surrounding natural landscapes, particularly focusing on unique experiences while offering comfort and practicality.

Mainstay Manor serves as a spacious residential building designed to facilitate both private and communal living. The architectural layout includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms in a two-story configuration, as well as a substantial dining hall capable of hosting large gatherings. This design emphasizes the importance of shared spaces while still providing areas for personal reflection. The executed form showcases contemporary aesthetics through its curvilinear design, which promotes fluidity in the structure while integrating seamlessly with its environment. A significant feature is the outdoor terrace that extends from the main gathering area, enhancing the connection between indoor spaces and nature.

Infinity Pod functions distinctly as a portable accommodation unit with an intimate configuration, designed specifically to enable guests to experience Iceland’s Northern Lights in a comfortable setting. The pod can accommodate up to four guests and is designed with a layout that includes a master bedroom, living area, and full bathroom. Its organic shape reflects a modern interpretation of traditional cabins, offering a unique angle that allows occupants to fully appreciate their surroundings. The incorporation of large glass panels and skylights facilitates a natural interplay of light and views, heightening the sensory experience of residing in this space.

Design Approaches and Unique Features One notable aspect of the Mainstay Manor is its balance between private and communal functions, ensuring that residents can engage with each other while still having opportunities for solitude. The choice of materials, likely including engineered wood and glass, supports the structural integrity and thermal efficiency of the building while allowing for an abundance of natural light.

Infinity Pod's design is particularly characterized by its portability and adaptability to various scenic locations. It stands out through its focus on outdoor immersive experiences, where the user can interact directly with the surroundings while remaining sheltered. By employing sustainable practices in material choices, the design speaks to ecological consciousness and enhances its appeal.

Integration of outdoor terraces in the Mainstay Manor allows for expansion beyond physical walls, creating a dynamic interaction with the surrounding environment. In the case of Infinity Pod, the strategic placement of windows and skylights enables an unobstructed view of the sky, aligning with its purpose of showcasing the Northern Lights.

Through these innovative architectural undertakings, both Mainstay Manor and Infinity Pod invite exploration into contemporary design that harmonizes living spaces with natural elements. For a comprehensive understanding of this project, including insights into architectural plans, sections, and design specifics, readers are encouraged to review the presentation details further.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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