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Elevated Stilt Structures Crafted From Sustainable Timber and Expansive Glass Facades Offering Uninterrupted Northern Lights Views

Author:
Agata Jankowska
Elevated Stilt Structures Crafted From Sustainable Timber and Expansive Glass Facades Offering Uninterrupted Northern Lights Views

Project in-detail

Elevated on stilts and utilizing sustainable timber and expansive glass facades, this design integrates seamlessly with the Icelandic landscape to provide guests with unobstructed views of the Northern Lights.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated stilt design enhances stability and minimizes land disruption.
02
Large glass facades maximize natural light and views of the aurora borealis.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and a unique aesthetic.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems promote environmental sustainability.
05
The bent A-frame design optimizes snow shedding and structural integrity.

The project, titled "Beds in Northern Lights," is an architectural endeavor located near Lake Mývatn in Iceland. This design focuses on providing unique accommodations that facilitate an intimate engagement with the natural environment, particularly the Northern Lights. The overarching aim of the project is to create a tranquil retreat that promotes relaxation and reflection while ensuring minimal ecological impact.

The architecture comprises modular units that draw inspiration from traditional Icelandic rural building techniques yet integrate modern amenities. By employing materials that emphasize sustainability and durability, the project seeks to establish a harmonious relationship with the local landscape, highlighting the interplay between built form and nature.

Design Approach and Unique Features

"Beds in Northern Lights" features a modular architecture that allows for varied configurations based on visitor needs and site conditions. This adaptability is essential in an environment characterized by extreme weather variations. The design utilizes wooden structures elevated on stilts to reduce land disruption and enhance the panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. This approach not only increases occupant exposure to the environment but also emphasizes a sustainable footprint.

A notable aspect of the project is its use of large glass surfaces, which serve dual purposes: they maximize natural light within each unit and provide guests with unobstructed views of the sky. This integration facilitates a continuous sensory connection to the landscape, particularly during the display of the Northern Lights. The triangular form of the buildings reflects Icelandic architectural heritage while ensuring efficient water drainage during snow and rain.

Sustainability is embedded throughout the design, with geothermal heating systems employed to provide energy-efficient climate control. Additionally, solar panels supply electricity and rainwater harvesting systems reduce reliance on external water sources. These elements underscore the project's commitment to ecological responsibility and resource efficiency.

Architectural Details and Functionality

The project emphasizes communal living through shared spaces, including kitchens and lounge areas that encourage interactions among guests. The arrangement of these communal facilities promotes social engagement while maintaining individual privacy within the modular units. Each building is purposefully positioned to blend into the landscape, minimizing visual disruption while enhancing the overall experience of the natural surroundings.

The architectural plans and sections reveal an organized structure that prioritizes user comfort and environmental integration. Each layout is designed to optimize views, ventilation, and energy efficiency while remaining true to the aesthetic qualities of Icelandic architecture.

For more in-depth insights into "Beds in Northern Lights," including architectural plans, sections, and additional design elements, viewers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative architectural ideas and approaches inherent in this project.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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