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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

Project in-detail

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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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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