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Triangular Viewing Point of Cross-Laminated Timber Overlooking the Northern Lights

Authors:
Kyrylo Sledz, Oles Horalevych, Uliana Chop, Alina Kushnir
Triangular Viewing Point of Cross-Laminated Timber Overlooking the Northern Lights

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and designed with a distinctive triangular shape, this observatory offers panoramic views of the Northern Lights while serving as a retreat for immersive natural experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced cross-laminated timber for enhanced sustainability.
02
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize views of the night sky.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic integration.
04
Features multiple observation platforms that allow panoramic viewing of the auroras.
05
Utilizes renewable energy sources to support eco-friendly operations throughout the building.

The Lookpoint is a contemporary architectural project located in Iceland, designed primarily as an observatory and retreat for experiencing the Northern Lights. The structure is conceived to enhance the connection between occupants and the surrounding natural landscape, integrating functionality with aesthetic engagement. The architecture incorporates innovative design elements that are reflective of Iceland’s unique geographical features, particularly the dramatic night sky.

The Lookpoint serves multiple functions, including educational spaces, observation decks, and living areas. It offers expansive views through strategically placed glass façades, facilitating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments. The design is structured across multiple levels, with careful attention to spatial organization that optimizes visibility of the auroras from various vantage points. The building's orientation is specifically planned to capture the celestial display, making the experience central to its purpose.

The project exemplifies a commitment to sustainable practices through the use of locally sourced materials, including reinforced concrete, timber, and metal cladding. These materials not only provide durability but also resonate with the local environment while contributing to energy efficiency. The extensive use of glass in the upper sections aligns with the building's intent to create an immersive experience, allowing occupants to engage with the natural phenomena that define the locale.

The Lookpoint distinguishes itself through its triangular geometry, which mirrors the contours of the surrounding landscape while promoting an upward gaze, in line with its purpose of celestial observation. The architectural design prioritizes natural light, incorporating integrated lighting techniques to enhance its presence during the night. Sustainability is woven into the essential framework of the building, utilizing renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to support its operations.

The internal layout emphasizes an open, airy feel, encouraging interaction with the natural vistas. Each space is designed with an eye towards comfort while ensuring that views of the aurora and the expansive landscape remain unobstructed. The project's engagement with local cultural narratives surrounding the Northern Lights further adds depth to its architectural significance.

For further insights into The Lookpoint, readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, sections, and design details that illustrate the innovative ideas behind this project. Detailed architectural layouts provide a comprehensive understanding of how the design achieves its functional and experiential goals effectively.

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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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