Architecture project // Skylit Guest Units with Dark Wood and Solar Panels Overlooking the Northern Lights

Skylit Guest Units with Dark Wood and Solar Panels Overlooking the Northern Lights

Authors:

Anna Caldana, Emanuele Crainich, Valentina Schiano

Featuring large skylights and dark wood cladding, the guest units provide stunning views of the Northern Lights while incorporating solar panels for energy efficiency and ensuring a unique lodging experience in Iceland’s picturesque landscape.

5 key facts about this project

Guest units include large skylights for direct views of the Northern Lights.

Each room is a self-sufficient energy unit powered by solar panels.

Dark wood cladding allows the structures to blend into the natural landscape.

The layout features independent units, promoting guest privacy and comfort.

Common areas include wellness facilities with baths and saunas for relaxation.

General keywords

iceland accommodation guest rooms sustainability northern lights hospitality wellness community lake views self-sufficient

Project specific keywords

view boxes solar panels skylight dark wood icelandic horses

Set in a captivating natural environment, the design focuses on providing a memorable experience for guests wanting to witness the Northern Lights. The layout consists of several small buildings that serve as guest units, which are thoughtfully arranged throughout the site. The overall aim is to blend the architecture with the landscape so visitors can connect with the beauty around them.

Guest Units

Each guest unit spans two stories, which helps maximize space while ensuring that guests have privacy and comfort. The ground level includes a living area complete with a kitchenette and a small bathroom. On the upper floor, guests find a cozy bedroom. A key design feature is the large skylight above the bed, allowing for direct views of the Northern Lights. This element creates an intimate setting for stargazing without interruptions. The glass exteriors of the units function as “view boxes,” offering broad vistas of the night sky and the lake during the day.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is an essential part of the design, as each guest room acts like its own energy-efficient unit. Incorporating solar panels and water tanks helps to reduce the overall environmental impact. This design approach not only promotes responsible resource use but also allows guests to feel a stronger connection to the natural surroundings.

Common Spaces

The site also includes three permanent structures: a host house, a barn for ten Icelandic horses, and a multifunctional space called "the hub." The hub serves as a communal gathering area, with a dining space and a terrace for social activities. Additionally, it features wellness areas including baths and saunas, promoting relaxation for guests. This combination encourages interaction among visitors and creates a stronger sense of community in a remote setting.

The buildings are clad in dark wood, helping them to blend into their environment. At night, the soft glow from inside the units provides a gentle contrast against the dark landscape. This touch enhances the visual appeal and deepens guests' engagement with the stunning night sky.