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Reflective Glass and Concrete Sanctuary Designed for Intimate Aurora Viewings

Authors:
Michael Clapp, Meriç Ozgen
Reflective Glass and Concrete Sanctuary Designed for Intimate Aurora Viewings

Project in-detail

Combining reflective glass and a concrete structure, this dwelling offers a unique design that emphasizes seasonal adaptation and intimate connections with the Northern Lights while providing a comfortable living space for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features reflective glass to enhance natural light and reflections of the surrounding landscape.
02
Constructed with a combination of concrete and cross-laminated timber for durability and warmth.
03
Design includes seasonal adaptability to optimize views of the Northern Lights throughout the year.
04
Incorporates modular units that allow for flexible configurations based on occupancy needs.
05
Utilizes translucent panels to provide natural illumination while shielding occupants from harsh weather.

### Overview
Located in a region renowned for its natural beauty and the visible spectacle of the Northern Lights, the project aims to create an architectural environment that enhances the experience of this phenomenon. The design adapts to the seasonal visibility of the auroras, reinforcing the relationship between the built form and its ecological context. The overall intent is to foster a deeper connection between visitors and the landscape while providing spaces that accommodate both communal gathering and individual reflection.

### Spatial Strategy
The project features a versatile spatial arrangement responsive to seasonal changes. During the summer months, the layout consolidates spaces for efficiency, while winter configurations allow for expansive viewing of the night skies. Central to the design is the host residence, which includes shared amenities such as kitchens and gathering areas, fostering a sense of community among visitors. Surrounding this core are smaller, mobile dwelling units that can be repositioned based on optimal aurora viewing angles. Specially designated viewing nodes and interconnected pathways further enhance visitor interaction with the landscape and promote exploration.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The choice of materials is critical to both the aesthetic and functional objectives of the design. Concrete provides a robust structural foundation, while reflective surfaces—such as glass and polished metal—are employed to capture and amplify natural light, including reflections of the auroras. Wood is integrated into interior elements, adding warmth and tactile comfort, contrasting with the surrounding cold climate. Translucent panels offer views of the landscape while serving as protective barriers against harsh weather. This careful selection of materials underscores a commitment to sustainability, utilizing local resources and incorporating energy-efficient design practices to ensure resilience within the project's ecological framework.

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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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