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Geothermal Harmony with Birch Wood Accents in Nordic Retreat

Author:
Nicholas Frayne
Geothermal Harmony with Birch Wood Accents in Nordic Retreat
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Utilizing geothermal heating and natural filtration systems, this design incorporates birch wood and large glass elements to create a sustainable retreat that fosters a deep connection with Iceland's stunning landscape while serving as a communal living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes geothermal heating systems to enhance energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates large glass elements for panoramic views of the Northern Lights.
03
Constructed with locally sourced birch wood to minimize environmental impact.
04
Features sleeping pods designed for optimal stargazing experiences.
05
Integrates natural filtration fields for sustainable water management.

## Overview
Located in Iceland, the Aurora House project comprises a series of interconnected structures, including Guest Houses, Host Houses, and Light Pods. The intent is to create a living environment that balances privacy with communal spaces, allowing occupants to engage with the surrounding landscape while enjoying contemporary amenities. The design aims to reflect the unique topography of Iceland, promoting environmental stewardship and enhancing guest experiences.

## Spatial Configuration
The project features a deliberate spatial organization that comprises three main elements:
- **Guest Houses**: These smaller structures cater to intimate groups, offering private living spaces with accessible paths to communal areas for social interaction.
- **Host Houses**: Functioning as the central gathering space, Host Houses are equipped with large windows and expansive balconies that foster community engagement while inviting the outdoors inside.
- **Sleeping Pods**: Designed for privacy, these innovative sleeping units offer unique opportunities for observing the night sky and the auroras, enhancing the immersive experience of the Icelandic landscape. Each component supports a dual focus on individual solitude and community connection, promoting a balanced lifestyle.

## Material Choices and Sustainability
The selection of materials reflects both aesthetic considerations and environmental responsibility:
- **Double Glazed Clear Shells** provide expansive views while ensuring thermal efficiency and minimizing visual obstruction.
- **Birch Wood** is employed throughout the structure for flooring and walls, aligning with local vegetation and promoting sustainability.
- **Photovoltaic Panels** are integrated to harness solar energy, contributing to the project's overall sustainability goals.

Additionally, various eco-friendly techniques are implemented:
- **Geothermal Heating** systems utilize underground sources to manage indoor temperatures sustainably.
- **Natural Filtration Fields** are incorporated for effective water management, promoting a self-sustaining ecosystem within the development.

The design utilizes the landscape's topography to maximize views while ensuring the buildings are harmoniously integrated into the environment, specifically oriented to take advantage of the natural light and auroras characteristic of the region.

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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

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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