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Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Create Harmonious Mountain Cabin

Authors:
Qianchen Yan, Wenjia Lyu, Jing Ge
Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Create Harmonious Mountain Cabin

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, the cabin seamlessly integrates into the rugged Icelandic landscape, providing a communal retreat designed for warmth and social interaction among winter visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted primarily from cross-laminated timber, enhancing structural strength and thermal insulation.
02
The exterior features charred wooden shingles, promoting durability and fire resistance.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while ensuring snow load efficiency.
04
Sunken seating around the central fireplace fosters communal warmth and engagement.
05
Large glass panels provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding Icelandic landscape.

The "Time Valley" snow cabin is an architectural project designed with a focus on integrating modern design principles with traditional Icelandic influences. Nestled within a mountainous landscape known for its skiing, the cabin serves as a retreat that accommodates both social interaction and individual reflection. The architectural design reflects the natural topography and geological features of the region by drawing inspiration from the shapes of volcanic craters.

The overall layout of the cabin emphasizes functional integration among various spaces while promoting a sense of community. The first floor features an entry area leading into a large circular space, which acts as a central hub for gatherings. This space pivots around a fireplace, encouraging warmth and sociability. A garage is incorporated into the first floor, facilitating easy access without disrupting the flow of living spaces. The design ensures smooth circulation and encourages connectivity among indoor and outdoor environments.

A hallmark of the design is the thoughtful use of materials, which contributes to the project’s sustainability. The primary structure utilizes cross-laminated timber (CLT) for its strength and aesthetic appeal, while exterior cladding in pine wood evokes the natural warmth of traditional cabins. The black shingle roof mirrors the appearance of local lava rocks, linking the structure back to its geological context. Quality glazing has been applied liberally throughout, optimizing natural light and providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

Unique Design Approaches The "Time Valley" cabin distinguishes itself through its architectural form and spatial organization. The design deconstructs the geometry of volcanic craters, creating an asymmetrical building profile that is both functional and visually appealing. This thoughtful shaping demonstrates resilience against snow loads while maintaining aesthetic integrity.

Moreover, the integration of social spaces is paramount. The cabin has been designed to encourage interaction among occupants. The sunken seating around the fireplace and the communal areas provide spaces for gathering, reflecting the Icelandic tradition of hospitality. Additionally, the second floor offers an information area and a view deck, enhancing engagement with the panoramic scenery that characterizes the region.

Material Choices and Environmental Considerations The project employs materials that are not only ecologically sustainable but also culturally relevant. The use of locally sourced materials underscores a commitment to sustainability while resonating with the heritage of alpine architecture. Structural elements are designed to withstand the harsh climatic conditions typical of mountainous environments, providing durability and adaptability.

Significant attention has been paid to the arrangement of spaces. The first and second floors facilitate natural ventilation and light penetration, ensuring energy efficiency. The design prioritizes visual connections to the outdoors, enhancing the residents' experiences of both isolation and community.

To explore this architectural project further, readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented in the project documentation. These resources provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas that underpin the "Time Valley" snow cabin's design and functionality.

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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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