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Circular Shelter Crafted from Metallic Panels and Volcanic Dust in Nordic Landscape

Author:
Francis Victor Stefan
Circular Shelter Crafted from Metallic Panels and Volcanic Dust in Nordic Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted from metallic panels and volcanic dust, the circular cabin provides a sustainable retreat that harmonizes with the Icelandic landscape while serving as a warm shelter for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built with a circular form, enhancing energy efficiency and structural stability.
02
Utilizes volcanic dust in the flooring, connecting the cabin with the local geology.
03
Incorporates large glass surfaces to maximize natural light and scenic views.
04
Features a panoramic terrace that extends outdoor living space.
05
Constructed using durable metallic panels designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.

## Project Overview

The `kúla (bubble) ski snow cabin`, situated in the Myvatn region of Iceland, represents a careful integration of architectural design with the surrounding natural landscape. The project acknowledges the area's rugged terrain and climatic conditions, aiming to balance aesthetic appeal with functional resilience.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of materials is fundamental to the cabin's design and its relationship with the environment. Metallic panels enhance durability and complement the snowy context while promoting weather resistance. High-quality insulation materials ensure energy efficiency in the cold climate. Thin wood panels introduce warmth and a natural quality, fostering a connection to the environment. The structural integrity of the design is supported by a robust timber frame, which accommodates the cabin's distinctive rounded roof and large glass panels. The extensive glass faҫade allows natural light to penetrate the interior, providing unobstructed views of the captivating landscape. The concrete flooring incorporates local volcanic dust, resonating with regional geology and contributing to the building's durability. The foundation employs stabilized earth, ensuring minimal impact on the landscape.

## Spatial Organization

The cabin's spatial organization emphasizes a blend of communal and private areas through an open-plan layout. A central hub facilitates social interaction, beginning at the welcoming lobby designed for orientation and gatherings. A self-service refreshment area addresses the needs of skiers, while separated changing rooms provide functional convenience. A panoramic terrace enhances outdoor engagement, offering a viewpoint for the stunning vistas of the Icelandic wilderness. The lounge features a circular seating arrangement centered around a hearth, promoting relaxation and community gathering. The cabin’s circular form not only enhances thermal performance but fosters a sense of belonging among visitors, while the extensive glass usage creates a direct connection to the surrounding environment.

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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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