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Charming Shelter Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Nestled Within Volcanic Landscape

Charming Shelter Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Nestled Within Volcanic Landscape
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Crafted from cross-laminated timber panels, the cabin integrates into the volcanic terrain while offering a communal space for skiers to connect with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity.
02
The bent A-frame design mimics local volcanic shapes while facilitating snow accumulation for insulation.
03
Extensive glass facades ensure natural light floods the interior while connecting occupants with the landscape.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and protection against harsh weather conditions.
05
Includes specialized storage solutions for ski equipment, catering specifically to recreational users.

## Overview

Located in Krafla, Iceland, the Halli Cabin is designed as a multifunctional space that caters specifically to the skiing community while harmonizing with its rugged natural setting. The intent is to create a retreat that fosters interaction with the surrounding landscape, facilitating both recreational and communal experiences. This architectural endeavor merges modern design with environmental considerations, establishing a functional shelter that reflects the unique geographical characteristics of the region.

## Architectural Language

### Roof and Facade

The cabin's roof structure is a key design element, sloping in a manner akin to the surrounding volcanic mountains. This feature not only aids snow retention, providing natural insulation, but also serves as a launch ramp for skiers. The facade, predominantly composed of extensive glass panels, enhances transparency, flooding the interior with natural light while offering unobstructed views of the wilderness. The materials used on the exterior draw inspiration from local glacial features, reinforcing the cabin’s dialogue with its environment.

### Interior Configuration

The interior layout promotes social interaction and communal gatherings, featuring open spaces with adaptable seating arrangements. Central to the design is a hearth inspired by traditional Nordic longhouses, symbolizing warmth and community. The ground floor includes facilities for rest, refreshments, and sports equipment storage, while the first floor caters to personal belongings and equipment maintenance, ensuring a practical and welcoming environment for visitors engaged in outdoor pursuits.

### Material Selection

The Halli Cabin utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for wall construction, contributing both warmth and structural integrity to withstand the harsh Icelandic climate. Accompanying plywood enhances the aesthetic cohesion within the space, while expansive glass elements facilitate natural ventilation. This thoughtful selection of materials underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and minimalism, aligning the built environment with its natural surroundings.

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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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