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Basalt Columns and Geothermal Heating Enhance Sustainable Winter Retreat Design

Authors:
Xinzi Deng, Yao Wei
Basalt Columns and Geothermal Heating Enhance Sustainable Winter Retreat Design

Project in-detail

Constructed from locally sourced basalt and equipped with geothermal heating, the design offers a sustainable retreat that connects seamlessly with Iceland's volcanic landscape while serving winter sports enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from local basalt, enhancing structural integrity against harsh weather.
02
Incorporates a geothermal heating system, utilizing Iceland’s natural resources for energy efficiency.
03
Features panoramic glazing that maximizes natural light while framing views of the volcanic landscape.
04
Designed with modular construction techniques, allowing efficient assembly on-site.
05
Includes an interactive information point to educate visitors about local ecology and skiing conditions.

### Project Overview

The ski cabin located in Krafla, Iceland, utilizes architectural design principles that reflect and integrate with the surrounding volcanic landscape, particularly drawing inspiration from the region's characteristic basalt formations. It serves as a retreat for ski enthusiasts while prioritizing modern comfort and sustainable practices. Positioned within a geothermal area known for its stunning scenery, the cabin is designed to enhance both functionality and visual appeal.

### Morphological Influence

The architectural form embodies the verticality and geometric characteristics of basalt columns, resembling the natural contours of the topography. The fluid, organic shape of the structure echoes the undulating lines of the nearby landscape, creating a visual connection with the environment. The design intentionally engages with the existing terrain to foster a sense of belonging between the cabin and its geological context.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Local materials play a crucial role in the cabin's construction, emphasizing sustainability and environmental harmony:

- **Basalt Columns**: Used as the primary structural support, these locally sourced elements provide both aesthetic value and functional integrity.
- **Basalt Wall Panels**: Curved panels enhance the thermal insulation and overall energy efficiency of the building while providing continuity between interior and exterior spaces.
- **Steel Framework**: This component ensures robust structural stability and allows for necessary thermal expansion.
- **High-Performance Glazing**: Expansive windows invite natural light and offer panoramic views, enhancing the connection to the landscape while maintaining energy efficiency.

The incorporation of geothermal heating systems demonstrates a commitment to eco-friendly practices, harnessing local energy resources to regulate indoor climates.

### Functional Organization

The cabin features carefully designated areas that cater to both recreational and practical needs:

- **Rest Zones**: Adjacent to the skiing area, these spaces are designed for relaxation and recovery after outdoor activities.
- **Educational Information Point**: This area informs visitors about local ecology and provides relevant skiing insights.
- **Maintenance Facilities**: Including a dedicated garage for snow grooming equipment to support ongoing operations.
- **Viewing Deck**: Designed to maximize the experience of the surrounding natural beauty, providing a space for contemplation and connection with the environment.

The architectural design thus encapsulates a blend of comfort, utility, and ecological mindfulness, reflecting a deliberate approach to responsible construction practices and community engagement.

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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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