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Curved Forms Enveloped in Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone for Sustainable Winter Retreat

Curved Forms Enveloped in Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone for Sustainable Winter Retreat
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Enveloped in charred wooden shingles and designed with curved forms that harmonize with the Icelandic landscape, the cabins provide a functional retreat for visitors seeking comfort amidst extreme weather conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced stone, the cabins blend seamlessly with the Icelandic landscape.
02
Each cabin features a curved design that reduces wind resistance and enhances thermal comfort.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance while creating an organic aesthetic.
04
Integrated photovoltaic glass contributes to energy efficiency without compromising natural light.
05
Common social spaces within the design foster interaction and community among visitors.

### Project Overview

The Stone Cabins project is situated in the snow-covered landscapes of Iceland, designed to enhance the experience of living and relaxation in an extreme climate. The objective is to merge functional living spaces with a deep respect for the natural environment and cultural heritage, emphasizing sustainability and contextual harmony.

### Spatial Layout and User Engagement

The spatial design prioritizes functionality and user experience within the ski cabins. Key areas include a self-service area for communal food storage and preparation, a relaxation zone featuring seating that fosters social interaction, and an information box that serves as a safety and convenience hub for visitors. The layout promotes a smooth transition between entrance, communal, and private spaces, ensuring that both social and individual needs are adequately met. Additionally, an auxiliary garage for snow grooming equipment contextualizes the structures within their rugged setting, further grounding the design in practical considerations.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability while enhancing the architectural aesthetics. Local stone provides both visual appeal and thermal mass, improving energy efficiency. Wood elements offer warmth and organic texture, contrasting with the stone's sturdiness. Transparent glazing optimizes natural light and panoramic views, while photovoltaic glass on select facades contributes to energy self-sufficiency. The integration of these materials facilitates low environmental impact and promotes the cabins' energy-efficient design, aligning with the overarching goal of environmental harmony and functionality.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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