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Mobility in Corten Steel and Glass Shelters for Aurora Viewing

Author:
Adrien Thivolle
Mobility in Corten Steel and Glass Shelters for Aurora Viewing

Project in-detail

Movable bedroom units constructed from corten steel and expansive glass provide a sustainable solution for immersive aurora viewing in Iceland's remote landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Movable units allow guests to reposition their accommodations for optimal aurora visibility.
02
Constructed with corten steel for durability and weather resistance in an arctic environment.
03
Large glass panels create unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and sky.
04
Utilizes high-performance insulation to maintain comfort in extreme cold conditions.
05
Modular design accommodates various group sizes while ensuring minimal environmental impact.
Norðurljós Hús is an architectural project located in the striking landscapes of Iceland. Designed to serve as a unique accommodation experience for guests seeking to observe the northern lights, the project emphasizes the integration of architectural form with the surrounding environment. This initiative brings together modern design concepts and sustainable practices, creating structures that encourage a direct engagement with Iceland's natural phenomena.

The overall function of Norðurljós Hús is to provide flexible living spaces that can accommodate different numbers of occupants while optimizing the viewing conditions for the aurora borealis. The project features movable bedroom units that can be repositioned according to the residents' needs and the changing weather conditions. This adaptability is vital in an environment where weather can greatly influence the visibility of natural light displays.

The design is characterized by its modular components, allowing for a range of configurations from single, intimate rooms to larger communal spaces for groups. Each unit is constructed with attention to material sustainability, featuring corten steel for structural durability, glass for expansive views, and wood for interior comfort and warmth. These materials are chosen not only for their functional attributes but also for their ability to harmonize with the Icelandic landscape.

Innovative approach is evident in the mobility feature of the bedrooms, enhancing the users' interaction with the natural environment. By allowing users to shift their living spaces, the design promotes a dynamic experience of the site, reinforcing a connection to the surrounding wilderness while preserving ecological balance.

The project incorporates high-performance insulation and renewable energy solutions, including solar panels, to ensure efficiency in an arctic climate. This focus on sustainability aligns with current architectural trends that prioritize environmental stewardship within design frameworks.

The overall result is a series of structures that maximize comfort while remaining minimally invasive to their surroundings. Each unit is an example of thoughtful design that prioritizes both functionality and aesthetic coherence with the Icelandic landscape. The architectural plans reveal a deliberate effort to blend modernity with natural simplicity.

For a thorough understanding of the intricate design choices and structural details, readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans and sections available for this project. Exploring these elements will provide deeper insights into the project's design and material considerations, contributing to a comprehensive appreciation of this architectural endeavor.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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