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Movable Guesthouses Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Embracing the Arctic Landscape

Authors:
Tanya Ally, Antonio Martin-macho Sanchez De Rojas
Movable Guesthouses Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Embracing the Arctic Landscape
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Movable guesthouses composed of cross-laminated timber panels enhance the experience of viewing the Aurora Borealis, seamlessly integrating with the volcanic landscape of Hverfjall while prioritizing sustainability and user interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Movable guesthouses are equipped with a rail system for customizable positioning.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced sustainability and strength.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinct aesthetic while improving weather resistance.
04
The bent A-frame design minimizes wind exposure and optimizes solar gain.
05
Designed to maximize views of the Aurora Borealis in the surrounding landscape.

## Project Overview

Located near the volcanic crater Hverfjall in Iceland, the design comprises a series of movable guest houses that thoughtfully engage with the natural environment. The aim is to enhance the user experience by maximizing views of the Aurora Borealis while prioritizing sustainability and minimizing environmental impact. The architectural concept builds a strong relationship with the surrounding landscape, promoting a unique connection between guests and the site's inherent beauty.

## Spatial Strategy

The design strategically responds to the site's topography and climatic conditions, employing a minimal footprint to preserve the landscape. Guest houses are mounted on a rail system, allowing for mobility and configuration adjustments that enhance privacy and optimize views. The main host house serves as the central hub, offering essential services and amenities while being positioned for maximum solar gain and protection from harsh winds.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Material selection focuses on aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility. Dark wood cladding helps the guest houses blend into the landscape while mitigating glare that could obstruct views of the auroras. Expansive glazing systems facilitate unobstructed sightlines, fostering an immersive experience with nature. Sustainable finishes and eco-friendly materials are emphasized throughout the project, contributing to its overall sustainability goals. Guest units are equipped with water management and renewable energy solutions, including wind turbines, to promote self-sufficiency and reduce ecological footprints.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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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