Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Basalt Facade and Gabled Roof Structure in a Geothermal Ski Cabin

Authors:
Bryan Velastegui, Andrew Quinn, Junhao Li
Basalt Facade and Gabled Roof Structure in a Geothermal Ski Cabin

Project in-detail

With a gabled roof and a facade of locally sourced basalt, the ski cabin integrates geothermal heating and triple-glazed windows to provide a functional retreat for winter sports enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a basalt façade that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
02
Incorporates geothermal heating for energy-efficient climate control.
03
Utilizes triple-glazed windows to enhance thermal performance and views.
04
Features an external corridor to promote social interaction among users.
05
Designed with a gabled roof for effective snow management in winter conditions.

### Overview
Located in the Myvatn region of Iceland, the ski cabin "Subsumption" is designed to harmonize with the natural landscape while drawing inspiration from traditional Icelandic vernacular architecture. The intention behind the design is to create a space that reflects the local environment and cultural heritage, integrating functional requirements with an aesthetic that honors historical forms.

### Spatial Organization
The layout of the cabin facilitates a balance between recreational activities and social interaction. An external corridor connects key areas of the facility, fostering a communal atmosphere conducive to gatherings while addressing practical considerations in a snowy climate. Internally, the building features dedicated zones for gear maintenance, storage, a refreshment area, and restrooms, centered around a communal space with a fireplace designed to promote warmth and relaxation after outdoor activities.

### Material and Environmental Strategy
"Subsumption" employs a selection of materials that resonate with the local context and sustainability principles. The use of concrete is finished to match the surrounding basalt stone, providing thermal mass while reflecting the landscape. Birch wood accents throughout the interior celebrate traditional craftsmanship, and basalt stone pathways enhance the outdoor experience. A metal roof efficiently manages heavy snowfall, while triple-glazed windows improve thermal performance and frame expansive views. The building utilizes geothermal heating for energy efficiency and is oriented to maximize passive solar gain, ensuring comfort through harsh winter conditions. The project prioritizes locally sourced materials to reinforce sustainability and minimize environmental impact.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy