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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Ski Cabin Integrated with the Mývatn Landscape

Author:
Ryan Kirkness
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Ski Cabin Integrated with the Mývatn Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design harmonizes with the Mývatn landscape, providing a functional ski cabin that balances modern amenities with local materiality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used for weather resistance and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
03
The bent A-frame design reduces wind load while offering panoramic views.
04
A functional zonation separates communal areas from private changing spaces efficiently.
05
The cabin's orientation optimizes sunlight and minimizes snow accumulation at entrances.

The Mývatn Ski Cabin is an architectural project located in the Mývatn region of Iceland, designed to function as a seasonal retreat for winter sports enthusiasts. This project serves to provide associated facilities for skiing while incorporating elements of comfort and connectivity with the surrounding landscape. The architecture emphasizes simplicity in design, effectively integrating local materials and responding to the environmental context.

The cabin is structured around three primary zones: REST & WARM, CHANGING, and SERVICE. Each zone plays a critical role in accommodating the needs of users. The REST & WARM area includes communal space with extensive glazing that allows for natural light and panoramic views, inviting users to experience the surrounding beauty. The CHANGING area is designated for skier transitions, ensuring practicality by offering changing rooms and minimal openings for privacy. Finally, the SERVICE zone contains storage and maintenance facilities, strategically positioned for easy access to the ski slopes.

The Mývatn Ski Cabin distinguishes itself through its innovative material use and architectural form that align with the local environment. The choice of materials, including timber, glass, concrete, and cross-laminated timber, reflects a commitment to sustainable building practices while ensuring durability against the Icelandic weather. The cabin employs a series of skillion roofs that mirror the contours of the landscape, facilitating snow management and enhancing visual cohesion with the environment. This design approach enables the building to harmonize with its natural surroundings while maintaining functional efficiency.

The cabin’s design integrates significant openings that enhance connectivity with the outdoor environment, reinforcing the experience of the landscape for occupants. By utilizing a double timber stud wall system, the structure achieves superior thermal performance, optimizing energy efficiency while maintaining comfort. The careful planning of the layout and material selection ensures that the cabin functions effectively year-round, accommodating winter sports activities and providing a serene retreat for relaxation.

To gain a deeper understanding of the architectural intent and execution behind the Mývatn Ski Cabin, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the project's unique characteristics and thoughtful design strategies.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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