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Bitumen and Aluminum Blend in a Sustainable Ski Retreat Featuring Natural Wood Elements

Author:
Lukas Fröhlich
Bitumen and Aluminum Blend in a Sustainable Ski Retreat Featuring Natural Wood Elements

Project in-detail

Utilizing a combination of bitumen and aluminum, this sustainable ski retreat integrates natural wood elements to provide efficient functionality and comfort in a rugged Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bitumen membranes for enhanced waterproofing and durability.
02
Integrates a snow groomer garage for efficient maintenance of equipment.
03
Incorporates double-glazed tempered glass for optimal thermal efficiency.
04
Features Thermo Hemp insulation for sustainable and effective temperature control.
05
Strategically designed large windows frame panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

## Overview

Located within Iceland’s rugged landscapes, the Ski Snow Cabin has been designed specifically for ski enthusiasts. The intent is to provide not only shelter but also a warm, comfortable space that enhances the experience of being surrounded by nature. This cabin's architectural approach draws directly from the local geology and crystalline formations, which inform both its aesthetic and structural integrity in harsh weather conditions.

## Geometric Inspiration and User Experience

The structure's multifaceted geometry echoes the shapes found in ice crystals, achieving a visual coherence with the surroundings while ensuring robustness against adverse climatic elements. Large windows are strategically incorporated to maximize natural light and frame views of the surrounding landscape, effectively blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments. This design facilitates an immersive experience, allowing occupants to engage with their scenic surroundings from within the cabin.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices reflect a conscious effort toward sustainability and durability. The construction employs a range of thoughtfully selected materials:

- **Bitumen Membrane**: Provides a two-layered waterproof building envelope.
- **ALU-Profile**: Structural aluminum elements contribute to the framework.
- **Double Glazed Tempered Glass**: Enhances thermal efficiency with its specified thickness and spacing.
- **Solid Wood Panels and Framework**: These elements increase the cabin's thermal mass and overall strength.
- **Eco-friendly Insulation**: Utilizes Thermo Hemp Jute to promote durability.
- **Heated Visible Screed**: Ensures comfort with its 7 cm thickness.
- **Concrete Foundation**: Designed for robust stability with a thickness of 35 cm.

Each material was selected for both its functional properties and its minimal environmental impact, aligning with contemporary ethical design standards.

## Functional Design and Integration

The interior layout is organized into distinct functional zones that cater to various user needs, promoting an efficient flow throughout the cabin:

- **Infopoint**: An interactive panel provides vital information, including real-time weather and ski trail maps.
- **Changing/Restroom Area**: Includes heated lockers to facilitate quick drying of wet gear.
- **Rest and Warmth Area**: Features flexible spaces for relaxation, enhanced by modern heating and comfortable seating.
- **Snack Area**: Offers refreshments for guests returning from skiing.
- **Tuning Station**: Equipped for quick ski adjustments, emphasizing practicality.
- **Snow Groomer Garage**: A multifunctional space for equipment storage and maintenance.

This thoughtful arrangement of spaces ensures that the cabin supports a range of activities while maintaining a warm, inviting atmosphere.

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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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