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

Asymmetrical Concrete Form with Thermal Insulation and Natural Wood Accents for Mountain Retreat
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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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