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Holonomic Guesthouses Featuring Transparent Panels and Natural Aesthetics for Aurora Observation

Authors:
Brigitte carmen Carlos cuadros, Victor gabriel gonzalo Cabrera nuñez
Holonomic Guesthouses Featuring Transparent Panels and Natural Aesthetics for Aurora Observation

Project in-detail

Constructed with holonomic movement systems and PAMDA transparent panels, the design creates an immersive environment for observing the Northern Lights while offering sustainable guest accommodations in Iceland's natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spherical structures allow for 360-degree views of the Northern Lights.
02
Holonomic movement enables guest units to rotate for optimal sightlines.
03
PAMDA transparent panels provide structural integrity while maximizing natural light.
04
A specialized wastewater treatment system utilizes stone wings for irrigation.
05
Radial organization fosters community interaction while maintaining privacy.

### Overview
Holtasoleyl is situated in Iceland, designed to facilitate an immersive observation experience of the Northern Lights. The project aims to provide accommodations for families and guests while ensuring harmony with the surrounding natural environment. The design is inspired by Icelandic traditions and natural forms, specifically the national flower, Holtasoley, and employs spherical structures that blend aesthetically and functionally into the landscape.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The layout features a central observatory surrounded by guesthouses arranged in a radial formation, reflecting the pattern of a flower. This organization enhances visibility of the night sky while fostering a communal atmosphere among guests. Spherical shapes are utilized throughout the design, particularly in the observatory and accommodations, maximizing panoramic views and optimizing the experience of viewing the Aurora Borealis. An innovative holonomic movement system allows guest bedrooms to rotate, ensuring unobstructed views in line with the position of the auroras.

### Material Innovations and Sustainability
The project incorporates advanced materials and sustainable practices. The observatory is constructed with glass to provide clear visibility, while PAMDA transparent panels allow for light permeability while maintaining structural integrity. The integration of concrete and hollow brick enhances thermal mass and insulation, ensuring indoor comfort in varying weather conditions. Sustainability measures, such as sloped terraces that capture rainwater and a unique wastewater management system using "stone wings," promote environmental responsibility by treating waste and irrigating the surrounding landscape.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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