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Charred Timber Facade Blending with Alpine Landscape for a Ski Retreat

Author:
Youngil Kim
Charred Timber Facade Blending with Alpine Landscape for a Ski Retreat

Project in-detail

Employing a charred timber facade that seamlessly integrates with the rugged alpine terrain, the ski cabin provides essential amenities for winter sports enthusiasts while prioritizing sustainability and user-centered design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred timber cladding enhances weather resistance while integrating with the natural landscape.
02
The bent A-frame design maximizes structural stability and creates dynamic interior spaces.
03
Passive solar strategies allow for natural lighting and energy efficiency throughout the cabin.
04
Ski-in, ski-out access directly connects users to winter sports without additional infrastructure.
05
The layout promotes social interaction through communal areas while maintaining privacy for individuals.

# Hríkalekur Ski Cabin Design Overview

The Hríkalekur ski cabin is situated in a mountainous area characterized by rugged terrain and variable climatic conditions. The design aims to blend functionality with a strong consideration for the surrounding landscape, prioritizing sustainability and user experience. Through careful planning and innovative design strategies, the project responds to both the natural environment and the needs of its users.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout of the cabin features an interconnected design that departs from conventional rigid configurations. Key spatial elements include a welcoming entry area, an equipment check and turning station for ski gear, unisex change rooms that foster inclusivity, and communal dining areas alongside rest zones. Large windows throughout the structure invite abundant natural light and provide expansive views of the landscape, enhancing the relationship between indoor spaces and the breathtaking outdoors. The segmentation into distinct volumes reflects the cabin's multifunctionality while promoting an organic flow within the spaces.

## Material Selection and Performance

Material choices for the Hríkalekur cabin emphasize sustainability and durability, supporting the building's performance in a challenging environment. The use of charred timber cladding enhances weather resistance while delivering an organic aesthetic. Structurally, osb board adds strength and economic viability, whereas reinforced concrete provides essential stability. Interior finishes include engineered hardwood, which creates warmth, and high-performance insulation that ensures energy efficiency and comfort during colder months. The overall material palette aligns with the cabin's intent to harmonize with its natural backdrop while meeting functional demands.

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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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