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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Shingles Form a Sustainable Ski Cabin Integrated with Iceland’s Landscape

Author:
Fabrizzio Lavado
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Shingles Form a Sustainable Ski Cabin Integrated with Iceland’s Landscape

Project in-detail

Combining cross-laminated timber panels with charred wooden shingles, this ski cabin seamlessly integrates into Iceland's volcanic landscape while offering a functional space for recreation and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built with cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while resisting harsh weather conditions.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal snow retention and natural light.
04
Local stone cladding provides a visual connection to the surrounding landscape.
05
Integrated living roofs support local vegetation and improve insulation.

### Overview

Myvatn's Stone Sanctuary is a multifaceted ski cabin located in northern Iceland, near the environmentally rich Lake Myvatn and the Hverfjall mountain. The design aims to harmonize with the unique geological features of the region while serving as a functional space for winter sports enthusiasts. The architectural concept emphasizes the interaction between built form and natural landscape, reflecting the area's cultural heritage and topographical diversity.

### Spatial Configuration

The sanctuary comprises three distinct volumes: the Ski Block, the Observation Block, and the Services and Staff Block. This tripartite arrangement allows for specific functional purposes, enhancing user experience. The Ski Block is designed to accommodate skiing equipment and rest areas, directly oriented towards the mountain to facilitate engagement with outdoor activities. The Observation Block features extensive glass panels that create panoramic viewing opportunities of the surrounding Icelandic scenery. In contrast, the Services Block discreetly integrates support facilities without disrupting the overall aesthetic.

### Material Considerations

The project utilizes a selection of locally sourced, sustainable materials, each chosen for its environmental appropriateness and visual connection to the landscape. Wood panels form the exterior walls, contributing warmth while integrating with the natural surroundings. Local stone clads the building, reinforcing its bond with the nearby geological formations. Glass panels are employed in key observation areas to maximize natural light, while synthetic shingle roofing ensures durability in the region's harsh conditions. Green turf roofs are incorporated to support local vegetation, enhance insulation, and promote ecological sustainability. This careful selection of materials underscores a vision of architectural coherence with the site's unique 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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