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Cylindrical Retreat Crafted From Sustainable Wood Panels With Expansive Views Of The Aurora

Authors:
Brian O'brian, Parastoo Najafi
Cylindrical Retreat Crafted From Sustainable Wood Panels With Expansive Views Of The Aurora

Project in-detail

Crafted from circular wood structures with glass facades to maximize views of the aurora, this retreat blends seamlessly with the landscape while providing both private accommodations and communal spaces for relaxation and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes circular structures to optimize panoramic views of the natural landscape.
02
Employs a combination of cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetics.
03
Integrated glass facades enhance natural light and visibility of the auroras.
04
Features a terraced layout that harmonizes with the site's topography.
05
Includes communal wellness facilities, such as a sauna and pool, promoting relaxation and community engagement.

### Architectural Design Report: Viewing Barrels Project

#### Overview
The Viewing Barrels project is situated in a remote area with a prominent view of the aurora borealis, designed to offer users a tranquil space for nature observation. This project strategically engages with the surrounding environment, reflecting a commitment to sustainable architectural practices while emphasizing the aesthetic and experiential aspects of the landscape.

#### Spatial Strategy
The layout comprises a central curved corridor that directs visitors toward various viewing points and accommodations, optimizing the site's topographical features. The arrangement includes both small barrels for 1-2 guests and larger barrels for 3-4 guests, enhancing privacy while promoting community interaction. Key functional areas include a reception space, common social areas with a kitchen and dining provisions, and private housing units that serve as comfortable retreats while reinforcing the connection with the exterior landscape.

#### Materiality and Design Features
Sustainability is a key consideration in the choice of materials. The project employs concrete for structural integrity, while wood enhances warmth and tactile experience within the barrels. Glass elements maximize views and provide connectivity to the natural surroundings. Additionally, the incorporation of steel lends support to the lightweight structure of the barrels, contributing to both safety and aesthetic appeal. Unique features include a colored retrieval system for maintenance purposes, coupled with wellness facilities such as a sauna and pool, designed to further enrich the user experience in this scenic context.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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