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

Authors:
Mallory Kerr, Andrea St-cyr
Curved Roof Cabin Integrating Charred Wooden Shingles with Local Timber in Iceland's Scenic Landscape

Project in-detail

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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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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