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Parabolic Roof Cabins With Photovoltaic Energy Along Mývatn Lake

Authors:
Juliette Cottereau, Mathilde Dassonville, Pauline Mortreau
Parabolic Roof Cabins With Photovoltaic Energy Along Mývatn Lake

Project in-detail

With bell-shaped cabins designed to capture natural light through parabolic openings and powered by photovoltaic cells, this accommodation along Mývatn Lake offers a unique blend of comfort and immersive experiences under the Northern Lights.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each cabin features a parabolic opening to enhance natural light and views of the sky.
02
Cabins are designed with modular construction for flexible group accommodation.
03
Photovoltaic cells provide sustainable energy for the cabin facilities.
04
The site emphasizes minimal environmental impact through prefabricated structures.
05
Built along the scenic shores of Mývatn Lake, offering direct views of the Northern Lights.

Ljósið - Iceland Northern Lights Rooms is an accommodation located along the scenic shores of Mývatn Lake in Iceland. The design combines the experience of camping with the comfort of a cabin, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Its focus on intimacy and connection to nature allows guests to fully experience the wonder of the Northern Lights in a peaceful setting.

Design Concept

The design hinges on blending the built environment with the striking landscape. Each cabin takes on a bell shape, featuring a parabolic opening in the ceiling. This design allows natural light to fill the cabin while providing an unobstructed view of the night sky. As a result, this opening invites the beauty of the auroras into the experience, enhancing the overall atmosphere for guests.

Interior Layout

Cabins measure approximately eight square meters, thoughtfully laid out to ensure functionality and comfort. Each unit includes a double bed, storage for belongings, and a table, providing essential amenities without excess. The compact design creates a cozy atmosphere, allowing two to four guests to stay comfortably, especially when units are joined together.

Modular Assembly and Community Space

Modularity is a key feature of Ljósið. The cabins can be arranged in various configurations to accommodate different group sizes. This flexibility promotes interaction within communal spaces, where guests can gather for shared experiences, such as storytelling or enjoying the stars. Consistent design elements throughout the cabins and common areas contribute to a unified aesthetic.

Sustainability and Environmental Sensitivity

Sustainability plays an important role in the design. Photovoltaic cells are included to provide electricity, supporting energy needs while minimizing environmental impact. The cabins are prefabricated, which allows for quick assembly and reduces disruption to the natural surroundings. This approach reflects a commitment to protecting Iceland's unique ecology.

The architecture serves as a perfect setting for the breathtaking vistas of Iceland, with the parabolic ceiling inviting the expansive sky into each cabin, deepening the connection between guests and the natural world around them.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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