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Dynamic Light Installation Featuring Perforated Metal Panels Within Nordic Landscape

Author:
Gabriel Agatsiotis
Dynamic Light Installation Featuring Perforated Metal Panels Within Nordic Landscape
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Perforated metal panels form a dynamic light installation that echoes the ethereal qualities of the Northern Lights, creating an immersive experience for visitors while seamlessly integrating with the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated metal panels serve as both structural elements and light diffusers, creating a play of shadows and illumination.
02
The installation features a modular arrangement of LED light poles that dynamically respond to environmental conditions.
03
Strategically located in the Grotjus Cave area, the design reflects the unique geological rift of the landscape.
04
Integrated with natural grass, the site preserves the surrounding environment and enhances sustainability.
05
The project emphasizes the relationship between architecture and the natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights.

The "Aurora Fields" project is an architectural installation located at the Grotjus Cave in Iceland. It aims to embody the visual essence of the Northern Lights through an interactive light and tower system. The project functions as both an experiential space and a landmark that invites visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape. By integrating natural phenomena with architectural design, it fosters a unique environment where architecture and nature coexist harmoniously.

Adaptive Light Interaction
The primary component of the installation is the central light tower, constructed from perforated metal panels that enhance the transmission of light. These panels create a layered façade, allowing for an interplay of shadow and illumination. Accompanying the tower is a field of LED light poles that are strategically arranged in a modular grid around the installation. This array is designed to dynamically respond to environmental conditions, simulating the color variations of the Northern Lights through a range of intensities. This adaptive lighting approach enables the project to provide a constantly changing experience for visitors, effectively bridging the gap between technology and nature.

Material Selection and Sustainability
The choice of materials plays a crucial role in the functionality and aesthetic of the project. Perforated metal panels ensure structural integrity while allowing light to permeate. Concrete is utilized for the foundation, contributing durability to the installation. Additionally, glass elements augment the interaction between light and space, providing transparency and enhancing viewer engagement. The use of natural grass surrounding the installation further ties the architectural elements to the natural landscape, emphasizing sustainability. These material choices reflect a commitment to creating a design that is not only visually compelling but also respects its environmental context.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the architectural strategies employed in the "Aurora Fields" project, a thorough examination of the architectural plans, sections, and designs is recommended. Exploring these elements will provide valuable insights into the unique architectural ideas that define this installation.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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