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Reflective Aluminum Facade and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Northern Lights Retreat

Author:
Elisa Matteucci
Reflective Aluminum Facade and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Northern Lights Retreat

Project in-detail

With a reflective aluminum facade and cross-laminated timber construction, the retreat is designed to enhance the observation of the northern lights while providing a comfortable environment for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective panels amplify ambient light and enhance the northern lights experience indoors.
02
Cross-laminated timber construction allows for complex geometric forms while ensuring structural integrity.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide durability and promote a natural weathering process.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes views of the sky while maintaining stability in harsh weather.
05
Natural insulation materials are integrated to minimize energy consumption and enhance comfort.

## Overview

The project, "Kaleidoscope," is located in Iceland and addresses the interplay between human experience and the Aurora Borealis. This design intends to enhance the visitor experience of this natural spectacle while providing a comfortable environment. The structure's form and reflective materials are harmonized with the surrounding landscape, creating an engaging atmosphere that invites immersion in the natural beauty of the area.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The architectural layout of "Kaleidoscope" is thoughtfully organized into distinct functional zones, including entrance, dining, sleeping, and bathing areas. Each zone is designed to facilitate a natural flow, allowing visitors to transition seamlessly between spaces. The interior features a complex arrangement of reflective surfaces that capture and reinterpret the changing hues of the northern lights, establishing an ethereal ambiance that enhances the overall experience. This layout offers both communal areas and private retreats, accommodating a range of user preferences for interaction and solitude.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

A diverse palette of materials has been selected to promote sustainability and aesthetic coherence with the environment. The outer cladding features lightweight aluminum panels that reflect the surrounding landscape, while cellulose insulation provides effective thermal performance, crucial for the fluctuating Icelandic climate. Interior reflective panels are strategically placed to amplify natural light, while engineered wood (XLAM) panels contribute structural integrity while enabling complex geometries. Additionally, elements such as biophilic design principles and water features, including a thermal bath, reinforce the connection between the built environment and the natural surroundings, fostering well-being among occupants.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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