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Charred Wood Exteriors and Thermal Insulation Define A Multifunctional Retreat in Nordic Peaks

Authors:
Vince Balázs Gogh, ábel Zoltán Wolstenholme, Fanni Zsuzsanna Szoboszlay
Charred Wood Exteriors and Thermal Insulation Define A Multifunctional Retreat in Nordic Peaks

Project in-detail

Charred wood exteriors combined with expansive glass panels provide thermal efficiency and visual connectivity, establishing a multifunctional retreat that serves both skiers and non-skiers within a stunning Nordic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance and aesthetic duality.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while reducing environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal snow shedding and natural light penetration.
04
An extensive viewing deck integrates outdoor experiences with indoor comfort.
05
Dedicated ski tuning facilities streamline user convenience in a communal setting.

### Overview

Located in a snowy mountainous region, the "Under One Roof" retreat is designed to function as a communal space for skiers and tourists, emphasizing simplicity and a profound connection to the Nordic landscape. The structure aims to integrate essential recreational and social functions within a cohesive design, enhancing the overall experience of its users while responding to the area's unique environmental characteristics.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The layout of the retreat reflects a strategy that ensures both connection and distinction among various functional zones. Key areas include a **Community Area**, featuring a glass block that maximizes natural light and creates an inviting atmosphere for both skiers and non-skiers. Adjacent to this is a **Locker/Ski Tuning Room** with durable stone flooring, designed to meet the practical needs of ski enthusiasts. The **Restrooms** are strategically concealed for privacy, while a **Viewing Deck** extends from the community space, offering timber flooring for an outdoor retreat where visitors can enjoy the expansive snowy vistas. Additionally, the **Snow Groomer Garage** is integrated into the design to efficiently manage operational needs without detracting from the user experience, showcasing an organic layout aligned with the surrounding landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette has been carefully curated to resonate with modern and traditional Icelandic architecture, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. **Concrete** serves as the primary structural element, providing a robust foundation capable of withstanding the local climate. **Glass** in the community area promotes transparency and a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces while ensuring effective insulation. The use of **Timber** for flooring in communal areas adds warmth, while **Stone** flooring in high-traffic zones like lockers and restrooms offers durability alongside aesthetic value. This thoughtful selection of materials not only fulfills functional requirements but also exemplifies the retreat’s commitment to sustainability and integration with the natural environment.

The design incorporates features such as efficient insulation methods to enhance comfort and reduce energy consumption, along with a flexible layout that accommodates diverse visitor needs throughout the year. Strategic window placements provide stunning views and emphasize the relationship between the interior spaces and the natural surroundings, ultimately reinforcing the retreat's role as an integral aspect of the local landscape.

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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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