Designed by Sparano + Mooney Architecture, Hotel Aurora Villa Opens to Guests in Fairbanks, Alaska

Designed by Sparano + Mooney Architecture, Aurora Villa Opens to Guests in Fairbanks, Alaska

Ephemeral and enchanting, the Northern Lights have fascinated and haunted human beings with their spectral presence for millennia. However, only over the past decade has there been a distinct surge in international tourism to the remote and icy locales above the Arctic Circle where the Aurora Borealis can best be viewed and photographed. The recently opened Aurora Villa, a boutique hotel designed by the architects at Sparano + Mooney was created with the specific intention of viewing and experiencing the Borealis within the comfort and coziness of the lodge.

The Aurora Villa, located outside of Fairbanks, Alaska, is becoming known internationally as one of the best places in the world to view and photograph the Aurora Borealis.  The modern resort project includes guest rooms and suites, public living spaces, a lobby and reception area, and dining space with large glazed openings oriented to the view of the northern lights.  Outdoor spaces include decks for photography, a hot tub area and an entry court.  Extreme climate conditions were considered during the development of the design and its sustainable aspects, incorporating a highly insulated building envelope and energy-efficient materials and systems.

Sources:

-Williams, Ingrid K. “Drawn to the Lights.” The New York Times (Printed February 17, 2019)

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/11/travel/northern-lights-tourism-in-sweden.html (accessed February 17, 2019)