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Elevated Steel Frames and Weather-Resistant Siding Create Eco-Friendly Lodgings Under the Northern Lights

Author:
Nilaus Maltha
Elevated Steel Frames and Weather-Resistant Siding Create Eco-Friendly Lodgings Under the Northern Lights

Project in-detail

With elevated steel frames and weather-resistant siding harmoniously designed to frame stunning views of the auroras, the accommodations offer guests a unique experience of nature in the heart of Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabins utilize prefabricated steel frames elevated above ground to improve snow load management.
02
Impact-resistant glass walls are strategically positioned for optimal aurora viewing while ensuring energy efficiency.
03
Weather-resistant metal siding enhances durability against Iceland's harsh climate conditions.
04
The design fosters modularity, allowing for flexible configurations and relocation as needed.
05
Sustainable practices are incorporated with solar panels and composting toilets, minimizing environmental impact.
The "Beds Under the Northern Lights" project is a thoughtfully conceived architectural endeavor located near Lake Myvatn in Iceland. This design aims to provide an immersive experience for visitors seeking a unique accommodation option that highlights the natural beauty of the Icelandic landscape, particularly the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. The architecture represents a respectful integration of human habitation within a pristine environment, fostering a sense of tranquility and connection with nature.

Functionally, the project is designed to serve as modular cabins that offer guests a retreat while promoting sustainability and a minimal environmental footprint. The layout encompasses two distinct cabin types, each tailored to meet the needs of different visitors while maintaining a cohesive architectural identity. Type A features an angular design that echoes the forms found in the surrounding terrain, while Type B adopts a more traditional cabin appearance yet is informed by similar design principles.

The materiality of this project contributes significantly to its overall aesthetic and functionality. The cabins are enveloped in weather-resistant metal siding, chosen for its durability against harsh climatic conditions. The structural framework utilizes prefabricated steel to elevate the cabins above ground level, minimizing snow accumulation and enabling efficient thermal performance. Inside, the use of plywood for finishes creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, complemented by expansive impact-resistant glass windows that frame stunning views of the night sky.

Sustainability is a core focus of the "Beds Under the Northern Lights" project. Renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, are integrated into the design, ensuring the cabins operate efficiently while reducing reliance on external power. Additionally, the implementation of composting toilets aligns with eco-friendly practices, contributing to the overall goal of minimizing environmental impact and promoting responsible tourism.

The spatial arrangement of the cabins is also a critical aspect of the design. By clustering the structures, the project encourages social interaction among guests without sacrificing privacy. Pathways guide visitors safely from communal facilities to their cabins, enhancing accessibility and connectivity throughout the site. This strategic organization reflects an understanding of the dynamics of communal living while preserving individual retreat experiences.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in how the architecture engages with its surroundings. The large windows are intentionally positioned to maximize views of the Northern Lights, transforming each cabin into a vessel for experiencing this natural phenomenon. The design carefully considers the relationship between architecture and nature, showcasing how built forms can enhance the appreciation of the landscape rather than dominate it.

Moreover, the project reflects a broader cultural sensitivity by incorporating elements that resonate with Icelandic architectural traditions. This thoughtful approach not only grounds the cabins within the heritage of the locale but also strengthens the connection between the visitors and the environment, fostering a deeper understanding of the setting.

For those interested in exploring this project further, examining the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas and practical applications that define "Beds Under the Northern Lights." The careful consideration of materiality, spatial organization, and ecological impact demonstrates a commitment to creating architecture that is both functional and harmonious with its natural context. Visitors are encouraged to delve into the intricacies of this project to fully appreciate its contributions to contemporary architectural discourse and sustainable design practices.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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