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Crystalline Facades And Sustainable Materials Define A Snow-Centric Retreat

Author:
Matěj Hošek
Crystalline Facades And Sustainable Materials Define A Snow-Centric Retreat

Project in-detail

With crystalline facades that reflect the surrounding alpine landscape and a structure crafted from durable concrete and warm wood accents, the retreat serves as a functional hub for skiing enthusiasts seeking seamless integration with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crystalline facades designed to minimize snow accumulation enhance environmental integration.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer superior thermal performance and sustainable sourcing.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance while adding aesthetic contrast.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural stability in extreme weather conditions.
05
Large panoramic windows create seamless connections between the interior and the alpine landscape.

## Project Overview

Located in Iceland's mountainous terrain, the Ski Snow Cabin represents a thoughtful architectural response to its dramatic environment. The design emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic integration, reflecting the region's unique cultural and geographical characteristics. The intent is to provide a refuge for skiers and nature enthusiasts, creating a cohesive space that invites users to engage deeply with the surrounding landscape.

## Architectural Composition

### Form and Structure
The cabin features angular, crystalline forms that evoke the natural ice formations in the area. This sculptural design not only enhances the visual appeal but also promotes an immersive experience in its snowy context. The structure's geometry is intentionally crafted to blend with its environment while remaining a distinctive element within the landscape.

### Material Usage
A carefully selected combination of materials defines the cabin's identity:

- **Concrete** provides durability and insulation, essential for withstanding the region's severe weather conditions.
- **Glass** elements maximize natural light and offer expansive views, effectively merging the indoor and outdoor environments.
- **Wood** used in interior spaces introduces warmth and texture, creating a contrast with the more rigid concrete and glass.
- **Metal** enhances the structural integrity while maintaining the overall design elegance.

This strategic selection of materials addresses practical requirements and enhances the emotional connection visitors experience with the Icelandic landscape through the cabin's physical presence.

## Sustainable Practices and Functionality

The design integrates sustainable practices, featuring renewable energy systems such as solar panels and wind turbines to minimize the carbon footprint. The structure's crystalline shape is optimized to reduce snow accumulation, facilitating easier maintenance during harsh winters.

Functionality is prioritized throughout the design, with features that include direct access to skiing routes, communal gathering spaces that encourage social interaction, and strategically placed windows that frame panoramic views of the surrounding nature. The careful arrangement of spaces and the effective use of materials contribute to both acoustic and thermal performance, fostering a serene atmosphere conducive to relaxation and social engagement.

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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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