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Spectral Aluminum Facade Meets Reclaimed Wood in A Sustainable Retreat for Aurora Viewing

Author:
Ya ching Tsai
Spectral Aluminum Facade Meets Reclaimed Wood in A Sustainable Retreat for Aurora Viewing

Project in-detail

With a facade of reflective aluminum that dances with the changing light and interiors crafted from repurposed wood, this retreat offers an intimate setting for experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facade utilizes spectral aluminum panels that change color with varying light conditions.
02
Interiors are crafted from reclaimed wood, enhancing sustainability and organic appeal.
03
The design includes clearstory windows, providing unobstructed views of the night sky.
04
Guest accommodations are housed in individual pods, allowing for privacy while promoting community.
05
Water collection systems are integrated into the sloped roof design for efficient resource management.
The architectural project "Dive into the Northern Light" is a thoughtfully designed facility located near Lake Mývatn in Iceland. It represents a compelling blend of hospitality and immersive experience, grounded in the natural beauty of its surroundings. Designed to facilitate an intimate connection with the stunning phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis, this project captures both the essence of the environment and the needs of its visitors.

At its core, the architecture of the project serves multiple functions, including accommodation, communal spaces, and areas dedicated to relaxation and contemplation. The layout is carefully orchestrated, guiding guests along a path that starts from the entry and unfolds toward a central gathering area, ultimately leading to distinct guest pods. Each of these spaces is engineered to provide a unique experience that complements the stunning vistas of the northern skies.

The design emphasizes the fluidity and movement inherent in the natural phenomena it aims to showcase. The architectural form embodies a sense of layering and repetition, creating spaces that echo the shifting patterns of the Northern Lights. As one moves through the interior, varying ceiling heights and strategically placed windows enhance the sense of scale and connection to the surrounding landscape, echoing the rhythm of the auroras in the sky above.

Material choices are integral to the project’s identity. Reclaimed wood is used throughout the interior, providing warmth and an organic touch that resonates with the natural environment. This choice supports sustainability efforts, as reclaimed materials reduce the need for new resources and carry a history that enriches the space. The exterior is clad with spectral aluminum panels, which are engineered to reflect light and change appearance based on atmospheric conditions. This interaction between light and material fosters a dynamic relationship with the environment, allowing the building to blend harmoniously with its breathtaking surroundings while also standing out as a modern architectural expression.

Key architectural features include the clearstory windows that draw in natural light while providing unobstructed views of the night sky, offering guests a direct connection to the environment. These windows help to maintain comfortable interior conditions during the colder months in Iceland, showcasing a design that prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality. The careful placement of the lounge and dining areas encourages communal interaction, creating opportunities for guests to share experiences while marveling at the celestial displays outside.

In exploring this project, one can observe unique design approaches that challenge traditional notions of hospitality architecture. The integration of mobile guest pods allows for privacy while maintaining a minimalist footprint, ensuring the design has a minimal environmental impact. The layout encourages exploration and discovery, allowing guests to venture from the public areas to their accommodations while being continuously engaged with the landscape.

Overall, "Dive into the Northern Light" demonstrates a thoughtful response to both the climatic conditions of Iceland and the natural wonders that define the region. The project exemplifies contemporary architectural ideals that prioritize sustainability, community, and connectivity to the environment. For those interested in delving deeper into this architectural endeavor, it is worthwhile to explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs that reveal further insights into its innovative approach. The project stands as a noteworthy example of how architecture can enhance the interaction between inhabitants and their extraordinary surroundings.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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