Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Panoramic Observatories Crafted from Locally Sourced Timber and Concrete

Authors:
Leila Nanuk, Maja Močibob, Katarina Mustać
Panoramic Observatories Crafted from Locally Sourced Timber and Concrete
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Crafted with locally sourced timber and concrete, this facility integrates panoramic glass elements to create seamless connections with its natural surroundings, offering a serene retreat for guests seeking to experience the beauty of the Northern Lights.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced sustainability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
04
Utilizes panoramic glass walls to provide unobstructed views and natural light.
05
Includes movable interior partitions for adaptable guest accommodations and communal spaces.

### Overview

The Northern Lights Rooms is situated near a serene lake, designed to facilitate community interaction while fostering a connection with the natural landscape. The project emphasizes a harmonious relationship with the environment, drawing inspiration from the Aurora Borealis. The design intent is to create a space that encourages mindful engagement with nature and supports communal gatherings.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The facility is arranged into distinct functional areas, including dining, accommodations, and communal spaces, centered around a central courtyard that promotes interaction among guests. The circular layout facilitates efficient movement while allowing for both individual reflection and group activities. Multiple entry points enhance accessibility, directing visitors seamlessly into the courtyard, and a network of pathways encourages exploration of the site.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materials are selected with sustainability in mind, utilizing locally sourced elements to minimize the structure’s carbon footprint. The building features a concrete core for structural durability, complemented by warm wooden finishes that promote a connection to the surrounding nature. Extensive use of glass in the façade maximizes natural light and offers unobstructed views of the Northern Lights. Interior finishes, including dark textile panels, contribute to thermal comfort while enhancing the overall experience.

The implementation of eco-friendly practices includes renewable energy systems, such as geothermal heating and rainwater harvesting, reinforcing the commitment to environmentally responsible design. These choices, combined with flexible interior layouts that allow for adaptable space configurations, highlight the project's focus on both community interaction and environmental stewardship.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in