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Charred Wood and Curved Forms in a Sustainable Ski Retreat

Authors:
Solveig Axelsdottir Priebs, Sonja Kreuzburg, Leona Aileen Ross
Charred Wood and Curved Forms in a Sustainable Ski Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood and dynamic curved forms, the design integrates traditional Icelandic elements into a sustainable ski retreat, offering a functional sanctuary within a breathtaking landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Shou Sugi Ban technique for charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability.
02
Incorporates dichroic glass for dynamic color changes based on light conditions.
03
Features a central atrium that maximizes natural light and social interaction.
04
Design reflects traditional Icelandic longhouse styles through its curved forms.
05
Utilizes perforated sheet metal inspired by local knitting patterns for ventilation.

## Project Overview
The Snúa Skáli, located near Lake Mývatn in Iceland, serves as a retreat for ski enthusiasts, thoughtfully designed to harmonize with the region’s striking natural landscape and challenging weather conditions. This architectural endeavor seeks to integrate modern comforts with elements of traditional Icelandic culture, particularly the longhouse style known as "skáli," which emphasizes communal living and resilience against the harsh climate.

## Architectural Form and Spatial Strategy
The cabin features a cohesive architectural form characterized by fluid curves that reflect the undulating terrain of the surrounding environment. This design includes extensive glazing to offer panoramic views of the volcanic mountains and snow-covered landscapes, while a timber framework ensures structural integrity and lightweight performance under heavy snowfall. The complex rooflines not only facilitate rainwater collection but also enhance users' connection to the sky, enriching the overall visitor experience.

## Materiality and Sustainable Practices
Materials selected for the Snúa Skáli are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing durability in extreme weather conditions. Scots Pine provides warmth and insulation, while charred wood, utilizing the Shou Sugi Ban technique, offers enhanced weather resistance. The interior also incorporates dichroic glass, which shifts color according to light, creating a dynamic ambiance. Additionally, the structure employs passive heating strategies, maximizing energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impact, thereby reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship.

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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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