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Crystalline Roof Formed With GRC Panels Nestled in Iceland’s Volcanic Landscape for Winter Recreational Use

Author:
Samer Hobeika
Crystalline Roof Formed With GRC Panels Nestled in Iceland’s Volcanic Landscape for Winter Recreational Use

Project in-detail

The distinct crystalline roof constructed from GRC panels merges with Iceland's volcanic landscape, providing a functional retreat for winter sports enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
The roofing design emulates the form of natural ice crystals, enhancing aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Prefabricated GRC panels ensure structural durability while minimizing on-site construction time.
03
Large glazing elements maximize natural light and offer unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains.
04
Dedicated ski maintenance facilities support year-round recreational use and operational efficiency.
05
Incorporation of space frame trusses allows for flexible interior layouts while maintaining structural integrity.

### Project Overview

Located in the scenic landscapes of Iceland, the Ski Snow Cabin exhibits an architectural design that responds to the region’s unique climatic and geological attributes. This facility is intended to support winter sports enthusiasts by providing essential amenities, including relaxation areas, equipment storage, and viewing platforms, thereby enhancing the outdoor experience while integrating with the surrounding natural environment.

### Spatial Organization

The arrangement of spaces within the Snow Cabin is methodically designed to fulfill various user needs while ensuring an intuitive flow. The upper level features a central entrance that leads into distinct functional zones, including a relaxation area for skiers, a self-serve refreshment station, and an elevated viewing deck that provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. The lower level accommodates essential facilities such as unisex changing rooms, an equipment check and tuning station, and a garage for snow grooming vehicles, supporting the operational efficiency of the cabin while ensuring user comfort before and after skiing activities.

### Materiality and Structure

The use of materiality is a key focus within the design, with the roof constructed from prefabricated Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) panels that create a slope mimicking natural forms and facilitating efficient snow shedding. Large glazing panels are incorporated throughout, allowing natural light to permeate the interior while providing expansive views and maintaining thermal performance. The primary structural system employs space frame trusses, accommodating the sweeping curves of the design and enhancing aesthetic appeal without compromising structural integrity. This thoughtful integration of materials and design elements underscores a commitment to sustainability and connection with Iceland's geological features.

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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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