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Elevated Living with Sliding Walls and Sustainable Wood Panels

Authors:
Liam Smith, Måns Eriksson, Anton Byström
Elevated Living with Sliding Walls and Sustainable Wood Panels
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Elevated on stilts to prevent moisture issues, the structure integrates sliding walls and wooden panels, creating a flexible and sustainable living space that embraces natural light and the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure on stilts reduces moisture issues.
02
Large windows enhance natural light and outdoor connection.
03
Sliding walls create versatile living spaces.
04
Greenhouse modules allow for year-round food production.
05
Off-grid systems support sustainability with solar power and rainwater collection.

Norrsken embodies traditional Scandinavian design while standing firmly in its landscape. The structure promotes sustainability and self-sufficiency, focusing on efficient living. Inspired by the geometry of a "långhus," the design maximizes space and establishes a close relationship between the indoors and outdoors.

Sustainability

Off-grid solutions are central to Norrsken. Solar panels on the roof generate electricity, while rainwater is collected and recycled for different uses. This approach reduces the environmental impact of the building and fosters a lifestyle in harmony with nature. The design also includes greenhouse modules, which can provide significant food production throughout the year, reinforcing the connection with sustainable practices.

Spatial Organization

The layout of Norrsken is carefully planned to optimize natural light. Living areas face west, allowing sunlight to pour in during the afternoon. Entrances, bathrooms, and bedrooms are positioned towards the east, creating a functional flow while ensuring privacy. This thoughtful arrangement enhances light throughout the home and invites the natural surroundings into everyday life.

Materiality and Structure

Wooden panels form the exterior walls, while the interior features pinewood. These materials maintain a unified aesthetic that aligns with Scandinavian simplicity. Elevating the building on stilts addresses moisture concerns and makes it suitable for various rocky sites. This choice creates a visible connection to the landscape, grounding the design in its environment.

Design Features

Inside, sliding walls add flexibility, enabling spaces to change according to daily needs. The heating systems—geothermal energy and a wood-burning stove—ensure comfort while also becoming integral features of the home's character. Large windows further enhance the design by blurring the lines between the inside and the outside, inviting the surrounding landscape into daily experiences.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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