OBA

 

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Charged with designing an observatory for the aurora borealis in Roveniemi, Finland, we sought to maximize the human experience with a minimal environmental impact. The proposed observatory complex latches on to an existing biking trail, which informs the shape of the building. The observatory is detaches and positioned at the trail’s terminus as a modern day temple to nature. Visitors can choose to travel straight to the observatory, by passing the oasis or take advantage of its many functions include a sauna and social area, a planetarium dedicated to understand the science of the aurora borealis, a restaurant and rooftop overlook offering sweeping views of the natural landscape and the city of Rovaniemi. The observatory is a simple structure with no function other than sheltering patrons from the arctic weather.