An magical logistics centre designed for Jolly Old Saint Nicholas has taken first place in the ‘Unbelievable Challenge’ architectural ideas competition.
The competition was launched by Helsinki-based company Ruukki Construction to help find Mr Claus an arctic Christmas hub that could be built in the Perävainio district of Oulu.
Alexandru Oprita and Laurentiu Constantin of Romania submitted the winning ‘Nothing Is Impossible’ scheme, which was praised by the judges for its innovation and feasibility.
The proposed building is wrapped in a photovoltaic and mirror facade that blends the structure into the landscape, making it appear invisible in the daytime.
At night, the building magically reveals itself and its façade transforms into a giant projection screen for outdoor events to attract tourists.
The design also includes sustainable features such as water and snow collector systems, and heat-seeking sensors.
Oprita and Constantin’s project was selected from 243 entries spanning 59 countries, with five other deserving projects highlighted as runner-ups.
The winning duo will receive €1000 and a chance for one member to experience a 10-week, full-paid internship at Snøhetta’s headquarters in Oslo.
Oprita and Constantin's winning "Nothing is impossible" building design
Finalist- Italian designer Giorgia Musacchio's 'At the Speed of Dreams'
Finalist - Polish designers Urszula Chomiak's and Pawel Potemkowski's '(Ice)climbing'
Finalist - Lithuanian designer Evelina Vasiliauskaite's Santapole
Finalist - Thai designers Nuttapol Techopitch and Satavee Kijsanayotin's S.M.K.XL Logistic
Honorary Mention - Designers El Hadi Jazairy, Chen Lu, and Kelly Koh's Santa Claus' Planetary Garden
Courtesy Inhabitat
