The architectural design project, "Northern Lights: Becoming Iceland," is located at the edge of the Arctic Circle near Lake Mývatn, a region shaped by striking geological features. Designed to enhance visitor experiences, the project aims to provide necessary shelter from the area's harsh climate. The concept draws on the contrasts found in Iceland—where fire meets ice—and encourages a dialogue between nature and the built environment.

Form and Layout

The design uses a linear layout that positions structures along a main axis leading from Hverfjall. This approach avoids clumping buildings together, instead adopting a pattern reminiscent of rune configurations found in Iceland's rural landscape. The guest house, placed at a higher elevation, is carefully situated to offer wide views while still providing sufficient privacy for its occupants.

Environmental Integration

A path lined with luminescent gravel runs through the site, providing light without adding to the overall light pollution. This thoughtful feature allows the natural beauty of the night sky, particularly the aurora borealis, to take center stage. The connection to the landscape is further enhanced through the careful selection of materials, which are designed to blend harmoniously with the surroundings.

Material Selection

The materials chosen include pre-cut steel, glass, weatherproof wood, and concrete. Each material serves a specific purpose, balancing durability and visual appeal. Eco-fiber insulation is also used to improve energy efficiency, making the buildings more sustainable. This careful selection is intended to withstand the local climate while still respecting the natural environment.

Operational Systems

Sustainable systems are integrated for water collection and waste management. Water is gathered from melting snow and seasonal rainfall, which supports resource management efforts. An eco-digester processes waste and generates energy for heating and cooking needs. Additionally, solar panels provide supplemental energy to movable rooms.

The design fosters a close relationship with the surrounding landscape by allowing visitors to take in expansive views. Transparency in the facades creates an inviting atmosphere, encouraging interaction with nature. The combination of clear and opaque surfaces brings together the interior spaces and the exterior environment, maintaining a sense of balance with the Icelandic wilderness.