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Dark Zinc Cladding and Adjustable Foundations Define Guest Accommodation Designed for Aurora Viewing

Authors:
Anna Lundh, Shadi Jalali heravi, Alisher Jalaldinov
Dark Zinc Cladding and Adjustable Foundations Define Guest Accommodation Designed for Aurora Viewing

Project in-detail

Offering a seamless connection to the natural landscape, the design incorporates dark zinc cladding and adjustable foundations to create a guest accommodation that enhances the experience of observing the aurora borealis.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with adjustable foundations to adapt to changing site conditions.
02
Incorporates dark zinc cladding that blends with the surrounding landscape.
03
Features a continuous light ring concept for ample natural illumination.
04
Guest units maximize views through large glass panels strategically placed.
05
The layout is carefully arranged to enhance guest privacy and experience.

## Project Overview

Located in a northern latitude region, the guest accommodation facility is designed to enhance the experience of viewing the aurora borealis while integrating harmoniously with the scenic landscape. The layout prioritizes both environmental considerations and guest comfort, reflecting a contemporary approach to hospitality architecture that appreciates its natural context.

## Site Strategy

The site plan, developed to a scale of 1:1000, features a strategic arrangement of individual guest dwellings that ensures privacy while maintaining accessibility. The main building is positioned on the southwest side of a hill, optimizing views and enhancing connections to the environment:

- **Access Roads**: A single winding access road facilitates service vehicle movement and guest navigation, minimizing disruption to local wildlife.

- **Minimal Footprint**: Guest accommodations are dispersed across the varied terrain, promoting distinct visual experiences and fostering a deeper connection to the landscape for each visitor.

- **Terrain Utilization**: The site's topography is thoughtfully employed to maximize spatial dynamics, offering diverse vantage points for observing both the aurora and the surrounding landscape.

## Main Building

### Design Elements

The main building features multifunctional spaces, including:

- **Dining Facilities**: A terrace and expansive dining area designed to optimize views of the aurora and natural scenery.

- **Lounge Areas**: Social spaces that prioritize natural light and guest comfort.

- **Operational Spaces**: The inclusion of a private owner's apartment facilitates efficient management while providing residential space.

### Materiality and Structure

The application of **dark zinc cladding** on the main building integrates it with the natural surroundings while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic.

- **Aluminum Storefront Windows**: These features enhance daylight penetration and visibility, effectively connecting the interior spaces with the outdoors.

### Interior Organization

The layout accommodates a range of functions, including:

- **Event Spaces**: A spacious entry-level terrace is designed for gatherings, facilitating a dynamic relationship with nature.

- **Inclusive Design**: Pathways and entrances incorporate wheelchair accessibility, ensuring that all guests can navigate the facility.

## Guest Dwellings

### Design Philosophy

The guest dwellings are designed as serene retreats that maintain significant sightlines to the natural surroundings. Key features include:

- **"Light Ring" Concept**: A continuous band of glass allows natural light to infiltrate while providing a visual link to the landscape, enhancing the immersive experience.

- **Spatial Orientation**: Dwellings are strategically oriented to amplify views of the aurora, enriching the emotional connection guests can cultivate with the environment.

- **Adjustable Foundations**: The design allows for the flexibility of the structures in response to varying site conditions.

### Material Consistency

Like the main building, the guest units utilize **dark zinc cladding**, paired with large glass panels to create transparency and foster a connection with the environment.

### Functional Features

- **Compact Bathroom Facilities**: Each unit includes a functional bathroom, prioritizing practicality without overwhelming the design.

- **Temporary Structure Design**: The dwellings are conceived for ease of assembly and disassembly, highlighting a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsiveness.

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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

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