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Mobile Lodging Featuring Geothermal Energy And Sustainable Timber Facades

Authors:
Maria Canepa, Andrea Quartara, Pietro Calciano
Mobile Lodging Featuring Geothermal Energy And Sustainable Timber Facades

Project in-detail

The mobile units, constructed with sustainable timber facades and equipped with geothermal energy systems, offer guests an immersive experience under the Northern Lights while minimizing environmental impact.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mobile units allow flexible repositioning for optimal aurora viewing.
02
Geothermal energy systems ensure efficient heating and sustainability.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity and aesthetics.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide durability while integrating with the landscape.
05
The bent A-frame design minimizes wind resistance and maximizes light capture.

The Iceland Northern Lights Rooms project represents a thoughtful response to the unique climatic and geographical context of Iceland. This architectural design focuses on providing visitors with an immersive experience that emphasizes the Northern Lights, while prioritizing functionality and sustainability. The project consists of several mobile guest rooms, common areas, and auxiliary structures, all designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape.

The primary function of this project is to serve as a lodging facility that encourages interaction with Iceland’s natural beauty. The buildings are situated to optimize views of the sky, particularly during the aurora borealis season. Each unit is designed to afford panoramic vistas, enhancing the guest experience while also considering the practical aspects of comfort and utility.

The architectural design features aerodynamic forms and green roofs that seamlessly blend with the topography. This approach minimizes visual disruption and reinforces the project's connection to its environment. The use of timber and metal as primary materials supports not only durability but also an aesthetic that reflects traditional Icelandic craftsmanship. The integration of large glass panels allows for an abundance of natural light during the day and unobstructed views at night.

One of the key aspects that sets this project apart is its emphasis on mobility. The mobile design of the guest rooms enables flexible orientations depending on the optimal viewing conditions for the Northern Lights. This adaptability is reinforced by the incorporation of shared common areas, designed to foster social interaction among guests. Additionally, the layout includes spaces for hosting local families, encouraging a community-centric atmosphere.

Sustainability is a central theme throughout the architectural design. Geothermal heating systems are utilized to minimize energy consumption, and rainwater harvesting mechanisms are integrated for efficient resource management. The careful selection of materials, including thermal insulation panels, ensures that the buildings perform well within the challenging climatic conditions.

The project exemplifies a balance between contemporary design ideas and respectful engagement with local vernacular architecture. By reflecting the cultural and environmental context of Iceland, the Iceland Northern Lights Rooms project offers a unique lodging experience that appeals to both tourists and locals.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural elements engaged in this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented in detail. Delving into the architectural ideas behind the Iceland Northern Lights Rooms will provide deeper insights into this innovative project.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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