Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Elevation Defining a Modular Ski Retreat

Authors:
Simon Sjursen, Naida Osmandžikovic
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Elevation Defining a Modular Ski Retreat

Project in-detail

Elevated on slender pillars and clad in charred wooden shingles, the ski cabin harmonizes with Iceland's rugged landscape, providing a sustainable retreat for winter sports enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on slender pillars to minimize site impact.
02
Clad in charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design for optimal snow management.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
05
Features a rainwater collection system for sustainable resource use.

## Project Overview

Located in Iceland's snowy landscapes, the ski cabin design project offers a retreat for skiers and nature enthusiasts. Its intent is to create a tranquil space that harmonizes with the natural surroundings, allowing users to engage with the scenic environment while providing essential amenities for recreation and relaxation.

## Design Elements

### Form and Structure

The architectural form integrates modern minimalist principles aimed at functional efficiency. Utilizing a modular grid system, the design enhances construction ease while the elevated structure, supported by slender pillars, minimizes ground disturbance. A sloped roof mitigates snow accumulation, improving the building's performance in winter conditions. Expansive glass panels create a visual connection between the interior and exterior, maximizing natural light and scenic views.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs a deliberate selection of materials that balance durability and warmth. Key materials include concrete for structural elements, wood for cladding and insulation, and extensive glass for transparency. Additionally, a rainwater collection system and sewage management infrastructure are integrated to promote eco-friendliness and self-sufficiency. These choices reflect a commitment to sustainability while ensuring the structure blends naturally with its environment.

### Spatial Organization

The interior layout is designed to accommodate diverse activities, featuring designated areas such as a viewing deck for landscape enjoyment, a restful nook for post-activity relaxation, and storage solutions for outdoor equipment. Self-service amenities ensure comfort and independence for users. This strategic spatial organization caters to both solitary visitors seeking quiet and groups looking to socialize, fostering adaptability in usage.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy