Siivet aurora, the Aurora Borealis Arctic Observatory is an architectural project situated in argument between the historic mystic of the northern lights and the urban landmark of Rovaniemi. This proposal by designers Jensen Liu and Sally Hsu explores the awakening moment of the Eos (the goddess of dawn), enhancing a natural phenomenon that continues to amaze audiences. The aurora is signifying the goddess of dawn splitting open the night sky breaking free of the dark skyline. The architectural design symbolizes Eos’s wings responding to the natural aurora phenomenon; as the magnetic field and wind undulates, it follows throughout echoing nature’s best painting.

The building was elected to have reflective stainless steel be the façade finish as the surfaces aim to capture the aurora and blend within the context. The architecture sits within the terrain; it minimizes the conflict with the site. This nestling aims to utilize the Earth’s thermal energy to achieve insulation.

A lighting pool has been installed with the function of a skylight in the entrance foyer of the building. In the cold harsh winter, the visitors and occupants within the interior can still enjoy a panorama scenery and rich daylight. This installment acts as insulation, the interior temperature is maintained for comfort.

To ensure the building is sufficient and sustainable, geothermal energy is captured to transform into electricity for the generation of a magnetic field. This power is used to generate the magnetic field required to activate the façade of the building. The force field allows the LED wings to undulate respond to the Aurora and the force all around. The water collected from snow and rain will be recycled to be used within the building in all leisure hot springs and water features.