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Arching Timber Structure Featuring Cross-Laminated Panels and Charred Shingles in a Ski Lodge Environment

Authors:
Henrik Mathias Björkman, Jonathan Oskar Björkman, Alexander Björkman
Arching Timber Structure Featuring Cross-Laminated Panels and Charred Shingles in a Ski Lodge Environment

Project in-detail

An arching structure of cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles creates a sustainable retreat for winter sports enthusiasts, situated harmoniously within the dramatic landscape near Lake Mývatn.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a green roof to enhance insulation and promote local biodiversity.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used throughout the structure for sustainability and strength.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance while integrating with the natural landscape.
04
The bent A-frame design allows for open interior spaces with efficient snow load management.
05
Pathways connect the lodge to surrounding skiing and hiking trails, promoting outdoor accessibility.

### Project Overview

Mývatn Fjallaskáli is designed as a ski lodge and snow groomer garage near Lake Mývatn in Iceland, a region known for its striking natural landscapes and winter sports activities. The design aims to provide a functional facility that is responsive to the environmental context, emphasizing sustainability while enhancing user engagement throughout the year.

### Architectural Elements and User Experience

The facility is organized into three distinct sections: the Central Space serves as a multifunctional lounge and equipment storage area, fostering community interaction among visitors; the Ski Lift and Storage section is equipped for ski maintenance and includes necessary amenities to accommodate winter conditions; and the Wellness Area offers relaxation features such as a sauna, aimed at enriching the skiing experience. The design prioritizes accessibility, creating a welcoming environment that supports diverse activities throughout the seasons.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project employs a strategic selection of materials that emphasize durability and aesthetic harmony with the natural surroundings. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) forms the primary structural framework, enhancing sustainability while reflecting Iceland's woodlands. Significant glass elements in the façade provide extensive views of the landscape, bridging indoor and outdoor environments. The incorporation of a green roof supports biodiversity and natural insulation, while natural stone accents connect the building to the geological features nearby. This material approach underscores the commitment to ecological responsibility and visual cohesion with the site.

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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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