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Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Views in a Sustainable Ski Cabin

Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Views in a Sustainable Ski Cabin
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive panoramic views, the cabin harmonizes with its Icelandic landscape while serving as a functional hub for skiing enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features extensive panoramic windows designed to optimize views of the Northern Lights.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and thermal efficiency.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to improve wind resistance in harsh weather conditions.
05
Includes interactive equipment stations tailored specifically for ski enthusiasts.

**Overview**

Located in the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, the Mývatn Skiing Cabin is designed to serve as both a functional base for skiing enthusiasts and a space that connects users with its surrounding environment. The cabin’s architecture prioritizes user experience, encouraging interaction among visitors while maintaining a respectful relationship with the natural terrain. Its layout and design aim to foster a sense of community and adventure, making it an essential amenity for those engaging with the local outdoor activities.

**Spatial Configuration and User Engagement**

The cabin features a carefully considered spatial strategy that enhances user engagement with the site. A hierarchical entrance guides visitors intuitively into the space, fostering a welcoming atmosphere from arrival. Key design elements include a panoramic viewing deck that integrates expansive windows, allowing occupants to immerse themselves in the stunning vistas and providing a location to observe natural phenomena such as the Northern Lights. The flexible layout of the ground and first floors incorporates open, modular spaces designed to adapt to diverse user needs, including communal areas for larger groups and interactive equipment stations for gear storage and rental, facilitating a streamlined experience.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**

Material choices for the Mývatn Skiing Cabin reflect a balance between modern aesthetics and environmental considerations. A 25 mm wooden facade and floor create a cohesive warmth and durability, sourcing from the local environment to enhance thermal efficiency. Complementing these features, the 150 mm concrete walls contribute structural stability while integrating seamlessly with the wooden elements. The thoughtful use of insulation materials ensures comfort in the region's challenging climate. This design approach minimizes the architectural footprint and promotes sustainable practices, encouraging visitors to embrace outdoor activities while being mindful of the surrounding ecosystem.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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