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Dynamic Light Displays Within Translucent Glass and Sustainable Oak Structures

Author:
Rebecca Smith
Dynamic Light Displays Within Translucent Glass and Sustainable Oak Structures

Project in-detail

Translucent glass panels reflect dynamic light displays against a backdrop of sustainable oak structures, creating an immersive experience for guests in a hospitality setting designed for optimal viewing of the Northern Lights.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent glass panels enhance natural light while providing reflective surfaces for light displays.
02
Movable Guest Pods allow for optimal positioning to view the Northern Lights.
03
Wood-burning stoves offer eco-friendly heating solutions in each accommodation.
04
Operable garage doors in the Host House create seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity.
05
Sustainable materials include locally sourced oak and charred wooden shingles for durability.
"Reflections: A Story of Light" is an architectural project that focuses on creating a hospitality experience in Iceland, specifically designed to enhance the appreciation of the Northern Lights. This project integrates natural beauty with functional living spaces, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a unique experience of light, nature, and community living.

The architecture of "Reflections" encapsulates several key components. It includes individual Guest Pods, a Host House, and Stables, each designed to foster interaction with the surrounding landscape while meeting the practical needs of guests. The Pod structures are built using a combination of pale oak wood and translucent glazed panels that facilitate light penetration while providing privacy. The incorporation of a wood-burning stove in each Pod emphasizes the warmth and comfort necessary for Iceland's climate.

Unique Design Approaches

A defining characteristic of this project is its adaptive architecture. The Guest Pods are movable, allowing for flexible placement with optimal views of the Northern Lights. This adaptability encourages engagement with the environment, as the Pods can be reoriented to maximize the visual experience based on the natural phenomena.

In addition, the design incorporates dynamic light displays synchronized with the natural auroras, creating a seamless blend of architecture and nature. The Host House features large operable garage doors, connecting indoor and outdoor spaces, which enhances communal interaction among guests.

Sustainability is a core principle in "Reflections." The project integrates solar panels, rainwater cisterns, and locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact. The use of black steel and aluminum provides contemporary aesthetics while ensuring durability and low maintenance.

Architectural Elements and Functional Aspects

The architectural elements of the project are meticulously designed to fulfill specific functions while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The Guest Pods offer an intimate living space for visitors, designed with efficient layouts and high-quality materials to ensure comfort and durability. Each Pod’s glazed panels serve not only for illumination purposes but also as a canvas for the light displays.

The Host House promotes social interaction through its large communal gathering area, designed to host various activities, from discussions to dining experiences. By prioritizing community within the design, the project fosters connections among guests, making the visit more enriching.

Overall, "Reflections: A Story of Light" represents a thoughtful integration of architecture, natural landscapes, and community-focused design. For those seeking additional insights into its architectural ideas, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of this project will yield a deeper understanding of its innovative essence.
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Enter an open architecture
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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