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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
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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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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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