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Glazed Facade and Steel Framework Enabling Seamless Views of the Aurora Borealis

Author:
Pablo Forero
Glazed Facade and Steel Framework Enabling Seamless Views of the Aurora Borealis

Project in-detail

A glazed facade and lightweight steel framework create unobstructed views of the Northern Lights in a minimalistic structure designed for immersive observation and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Glazed facade enhances integration with the landscape while maximizing daylight.
02
Lightweight steel framework ensures stability without compromising aesthetic minimalism.
03
Rainwater collection system promotes sustainability and reduces environmental impact.
04
Flexible interior layouts accommodate diverse uses while optimizing limited space.
05
Extensive terraces invite outdoor interaction and enhance the viewing experience of the night sky.

## Overview

"The Light Units" is a contemporary architectural project located in a remote area characterized by its natural landscape and the captivating display of the Northern Lights. The intent of the design is to create a harmonious relationship between the occupants and the surrounding environment, offering a unique opportunity for intimate engagement with this natural phenomenon. The project emphasizes minimalist aesthetics and innovative technology, aiming to enhance user experience while prioritizing sustainability and environmental sensitivity.

## Spatial Strategy and Materiality

The architectural form adopts a minimalist approach, employing simple geometric shapes that reduce visual impact while ensuring functionality. Each unit is designed to provide optimal interior comfort within a compact volume, with dimensions approximately 3.8 meters in width and 2.7 meters in height. Notably, the sleek design features sloped roofs to minimize snow accumulation, contributing to overall efficiency.

Key materials play a crucial role in fulfilling both functional and aesthetic objectives. The façade utilizes polished glass, allowing unobstructed views of the landscape while reflecting light to enhance the units' subtle integration into the environment. A lightweight steel frame supports structural integrity, while thick thermal insulation between glass panels ensures energy efficiency and indoor comfort. Interior finishes employ wood, creating a warm atmosphere, complemented by a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management and an integrated septic system to address waste sustainably.

## User Experience and Sustainability

The interior design focuses on flexibility, allowing for adaptable layouts that can accommodate various activities such as sleeping, dining, and storage. Ingeniously integrated furniture maintains dynamism within the space, catering to changing user needs. Heating and cooling systems are designed to leverage passive energy from the landscape, while extensive glazing ensures optimal natural light without compromising privacy.

Sustainability is a core principle throughout the project. The rainwater collection system significantly reduces ecological footprints by providing potable water, while passive heating strategies and efficient insulation contribute to low energy consumption. The overall design minimizes land disturbance, reflecting a commitment to reducing human impact on the environment. Each unit's strategic positioning enhances the visual connection with the landscape while including spacious terraces that extend the living area outdoors, encouraging user immersion in nature.

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

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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