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Asymmetrical Concrete Form with Thermal Insulation and Natural Wood Accents for Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Jaehee Choi, 규민 장
Asymmetrical Concrete Form with Thermal Insulation and Natural Wood Accents for Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

Asymmetrical concrete structures with integrated thermal insulation and natural wood accents create a seamless connection to the volcanic landscape, serving as a functional ski cabin for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Asymmetrical concrete form enhances structural stability while reflecting the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Thermal insulation integrates seamlessly with natural wood to improve energy efficiency.
03
Large glass panels provide panoramic views without compromising thermal performance.
04
Modular design allows for flexibility in construction and adaptability to changing needs.
05
Natural drainage solutions incorporated into the design mitigate snow accumulation issues.

### Overview

OREUM is situated in the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province of South Korea, drawing inspiration from the region's volcanic landscape, specifically the Orem volcano. The project aims to integrate natural elements with functional design, resulting in a sustainable ski cabin that reflects the characteristics of its geological influences.

### Conceptual Framework

The architectural approach centers on the interplay between volcanic activity and the surrounding environment, illustrating the duality of fire and ice inherent in geological processes. The design embodies the physical properties of volcanic formations, creating a series of flowing, interconnected forms that resemble the hills and valleys of the Icelandic terrain. This fluidity challenges conventional ski cabin aesthetics, instead reinforcing a narrative connected to the land's tectonic movements.

### Materiality

Sustainability is a key focus in the selection of materials, chosen to ensure both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal:

- **Concrete**: Utilized in its raw state for durability and its tactile connection to the volcanic landscape.
- **Wood**: Incorporated into the interior to provide warmth and contrast with the cold exterior, enhancing user comfort.
- **Glass**: Employed extensively to maximize natural light and offer expansive views of the mountainous surroundings, fostering a sense of openness.
- **Insulated membranes**: Enhance thermal efficiency, ensuring comfort in harsh weather conditions.
- **Low carbon materials**: Focused on reducing the project's carbon footprint, aligning with contemporary sustainable practices.

### Unique Design Elements

**Form and Geometry**: The cabin’s undulating roof and wave-like structures not only serve aesthetic purposes but also facilitate efficient water runoff and snow shedding. This dynamic form emphasizes the connection to the natural landscape, contributing to its sculptural quality.

**Functional Zoning**: The interior layout is organized into various functional zones, including ski storage for convenience, social areas with large windows to capture views, and changing rooms to accommodate skiers.

**Adaptability**: The modular design allows for components of the cabin to be assembled or relocated, enhancing its flexibility for varying users and seasonal changes.

### Spatial Experience

Visitors experience a design that emphasizes comfort while fostering a connection to the environment. The use of natural wood textures and gentle curves throughout the cabin mirrors the surrounding landscape, establishing a cohesive relationship between the interior and exterior settings.

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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

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