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Basalt and Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Nestled in a Snowy Landscape

Author:
Benjamin Simmons
Basalt and Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Nestled in a Snowy Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with basalt stone and cross-laminated timber, the design harmonizes with its snow-covered environment while offering a functional space for communal living and wellness activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced basalt stone for durability and aesthetic integration into the landscape.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and environmental sustainability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles, enhancing weather resistance and promoting a unique visual texture.
04
The bent A-frame design maximizes snow runoff and reduces structural load during winter conditions.
05
Includes communal spaces designed to foster social interaction among visitors and promote a sense of community.

### Overview

Snjóberg is located in a mountainous, snowy region, conceived to facilitate interaction with the natural environment while also serving as a refuge from technology-driven lifestyles. The design aims to bridge the gap between the raw beauty of the wilderness and human habitation through a combination of a hostel, spa, and communal areas, thereby fostering recreational and social interactions among visitors.

### Material Integration and Sustainability

The architectural strategy emphasizes the use of local and indigenous materials that resonate with the geological context of the site. Native basalt stone serves as a durable and visually coherent choice, while a wood frame structure pays homage to traditional Nordic architecture, creating inviting spaces. Additionally, elements inspired by glacial ice incorporate water features into the design without detracting from sustainability principles. These selections promote environmental stewardship and reflect regional identity, establishing a strong connection between the built environment and its natural surroundings.

### Spatial Dynamics and User Engagement

The spatial organization prioritizes movement and interaction, designed to enhance user experience across various functional areas. The hostel features communal amenities that encourage social interaction while maintaining private spaces for guests. Central to the design is a hot spring and spa facility that adapts to the topography, allowing for both relaxation and immersion in the landscape. The angular forms of the architecture echo the contours of the mountains, offering a modern interpretation of classic mountain lodge aesthetics while promoting a sense of place. Pathways and visual corridors strategically integrate indoor and outdoor experiences, facilitating continuous engagement with the scenic environment.

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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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