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Curved Roof Cabin Integrating Charred Wooden Shingles with Local Timber in Iceland's Scenic Landscape

Curved Roof Cabin Integrating Charred Wooden Shingles with Local Timber in Iceland's Scenic Landscape
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a curved roof design, this cabin blends seamlessly with Iceland's landscape while providing essential amenities for winter recreation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance.
02
Features a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space.
03
Utilizes locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity.
04
Includes an observation deck that integrates with the surrounding landscape.
05
Designed with a central passage for efficient access to ski slopes.

### Project Overview

The ski cabin in Iceland's Myvatn region is designed to integrate functionality with the surrounding natural landscape, characterized by its stunning geological features. The project aims to provide a practical space for winter sports enthusiasts while reflecting a respectful engagement with its environmental context.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The layout facilitates optimal movement and access throughout the building. A central passage connects the parking area to the ski slopes, enhancing accessibility for users while delineating private operational spaces—such as equipment storage—from public areas. This arrangement includes essential facilities including a snow groomer garage, equipment check area, and changing rooms, which streamline operations for both staff and visitors. The design incorporates inviting public spaces, such as a rest area featuring a fireplace that promotes social interaction, as well as an observation deck designed to offer tranquil views during the warmer months.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

Material selection emphasizes durability and aesthetic harmony with the surrounding landscape. Wood serves as a primary construction material, contributing warmth and texture, while large glass panels maximize natural light and frame views of the outdoors. Concrete provides structural stability, likely forming the foundation of the building. The design philosophy incorporates sustainability principles, including the potential use of passive solar heating through strategic orientation and the integration of local materials to minimize transportation-related carbon emissions.

The roof design reflects the contours of the landscape, further enhancing the project's visual and functional integration with its environment. Panoramic windows aim to foster a connection between occupants and the natural surroundings, promoting an appreciation for the Icelandic landscape.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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