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Slate Facade and Warm Wooden Interiors in a Functional Ski Retreat

Authors:
Emilie Sirard, Julien Laroche
Slate Facade and Warm Wooden Interiors in a Functional Ski Retreat

Project in-detail

With a stunning slate facade that echoes the region's volcanic geology and warm wooden interiors that invite comfort, this ski retreat provides a seamless blend of functionality and environmental integration for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
The slate facade is designed to reflect the local geology, enhancing the cabin's integration with the landscape.
02
Warm wooden interiors leverage cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and comfort.
03
The cabin's bent A-frame design allows for optimal snow shedding, reducing maintenance during winter.
04
Strategically placed windows provide panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape while maximizing natural light indoors.
05
Interactive information points guide visitors, enhancing their experience and connection to the environment.

### Project Overview

Located in the Myvatn region of Northern Iceland, Norræn Skjól serves as a ski cabin designed to enhance the recreational experience in a remote landscape. The architectural design draws from the region's dramatic topography and traditional Icelandic architecture, aiming to provide a functional and visually coherent retreat that complements its surroundings.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The cabin's layout is strategically organized into distinct functional areas that prioritize user experience. Key zones include living and utility spaces such as an interactive information point, changing rooms, rest areas, and equipment storage. Multiple outdoor terraces and viewing decks encourage engagement with the stunning landscape, while well-considered circulation routes facilitate seamless movement between different spaces. The spacious terrace serves as a gathering point for skiers, promoting social interaction and a direct connection to the outdoors.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

Material selection is fundamental to the cabin's identity and performance. An exterior slate finish is chosen for its durability and resonance with the local geology, while warm wooden elements create a welcoming interior atmosphere. Large glass panels maximize natural light, further enhancing views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the design incorporates sustainable practices, including geothermal heating, aligning with an ecological commitment to minimize the environmental impact. The architectural form reflects the undulating terrain, reinforcing the building's integration into its context while considering local wildlife and ecosystem dynamics.

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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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