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Mobile Accommodation Featuring Lightweight Metal and OSB Construction for Optimal Aurora Viewing

Authors:
Judith Pelli, Oskar Bode, Qusay Awad
Mobile Accommodation Featuring Lightweight Metal and OSB Construction for Optimal Aurora Viewing
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Constructed from lightweight metal and oriented strand board, this mobile accommodation allows guests to reposition their lodging for optimal views of the Aurora Borealis while providing essential amenities for a comfortable stay in a remote natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mobile units can be repositioned to enhance visibility of the Aurora Borealis.
02
Constructed primarily from lightweight metal and oriented strand board for flexibility.
03
Central office serves multiple functions, including reception and communal dining.
04
Accommodations range from single to family-sized units, catering to diverse visitor needs.
05
Large windows allow unobstructed views of the surrounding natural landscape.

### Overview

The Northern LightRooms project entails the design of a holiday resort aimed at providing enhanced viewing opportunities of the Aurora Borealis, located within a mountainous landscape. The initiative is characterized by its innovative approach to mobility, allowing accommodation units to be repositioned for optimal celestial observation, thereby integrating modern architectural principles with the natural environment.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The layout of the resort draws inspiration from traditional Viking village structures, emphasizing community through a central office that acts as the core. Surrounding this hub, housing units are arranged in a circular pattern that facilitates easy navigation for residents and staff. The diversified dwelling options include single, double, and family apartments, accommodating up to 21 guests at any given time. Each unit is equipped with essential amenities, including a kitchen, lounge area, lofted bedrooms, and bathrooms, ensuring both comfort and practicality.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

The project prioritizes materiality with a focus on lightweight construction methods. The primary framework consists of hot-rolled sheet steel and oriented strand board (OSB), ensuring mobility and durability. Insulation is provided by glass wool for thermal efficiency, while birch plywood contributes a warm interior aesthetic alongside metal plating that enhances structural integrity.

Environmental sensitivity is a key consideration, with underground utilities implemented to minimize surface disruption and preserve the surrounding natural setting. This approach allows for unobstructed views and respects the local ecosystem while enabling an immersive guest experience that aligns with the visual spectacle of the Aurora Borealis.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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