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Panoramic Views Through Insulated Glass and Sustainable Timber Construction in Mobile Lodging

Authors:
Rachel Connor, Shelby Tupac, Tania Agacanian, Kyle Wulf
Panoramic Views Through Insulated Glass and Sustainable Timber Construction in Mobile Lodging
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Utilizing mobile units constructed from sustainable timber and insulated glass, this lodging solution offers unobstructed panoramic views of the Northern Lights while providing a comfortable retreat for nature enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes mobile guest pods for flexible positioning to enhance aurora viewing.
02
Incorporates solar panels for sustainable energy generation on-site.
03
Features extensive insulated glass for thermal efficiency and panoramic views.
04
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Includes a communal center for shared amenities while maintaining individual privacy.

### Project Overview
Located in northeastern Iceland, the Light Pod project is designed to provide environmentally efficient mobile accommodations for nature enthusiasts seeking to experience the Northern Lights. The conceptual framework emphasizes sustainability, privacy, and mobility, complemented by communal spaces to facilitate user engagement with the surrounding natural landscape.

### Spatial Strategy and User Interaction
The design incorporates a strategic placement of mobile guest pods, allowing occupants to relocate to optimal viewing spots of the aurora borealis. Each pod is constructed to enhance both individual privacy and community interaction, with shared amenities located in a central community center. This structure serves as a hub for guest resources, including dining and sanitation facilities, while fostering a sense of shared experience among visitors. The adaptable layout encourages exploration of the Icelandic environment, balancing solitude with connectivity to communal living.

### Sustainable Materiality and Systems
The selection of materials prioritizes durability and environmental efficiency. Key components include wood paneling for structural integrity, glazed panels for unobstructed views of the night sky, and insulated glass to maintain interior comfort. Each pod's mobile design is supported by an aluminum frame, while solar panels provide renewable energy for the entire facility. Environmental systems include an independent water source from nearby Lake Mývatn, ensuring a sustainable supply for guests. These features collectively align with contemporary environmental goals, presenting a model for responsible eco-tourism architecture.

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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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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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