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Curved Roof Design Featuring Glazed Façades and Sustainable Wood Materials in a Ski Retreat

Curved Roof Design Featuring Glazed Façades and Sustainable Wood Materials in a Ski Retreat
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A curved, glazed façade envelops a sustainable wooden structure that seamlessly integrates with the Icelandic landscape, providing a functional retreat for skiers with impressive views and efficient circulation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved roof design optimizes snow shedding while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
Large glazed sections provide panoramic views and maximize natural light.
03
Materials chosen for durability include charred wooden shingles for weather resistance.
04
User circulation paths are strategically separated for enhanced operational efficiency.
05
Interior wood finishes create a warm atmosphere while complementing the natural setting.

### Project Overview

The Arc ski cabin is located in Iceland, strategically designed to complement the surrounding landscape while fulfilling the functional requirements of a ski resort environment. The architecture merges modern design principles with respect for traditional forms in the region, drawing inspiration from the aurora borealis and the unique characteristics of the icy terrain.

### Spatial Design and User Experience

The cabin's design features a central widening that enhances utility and social interaction, with a curved roof that reflects the contours of the snow drifts and facilitates effective snow shedding. Extensive glazing throughout the structure allows for natural light to permeate the interior and offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains, creating a sense of continuity between the indoor and outdoor environments. Careful attention to circulation patterns differentiates staff and visitor pathways, improving operational efficiency while maintaining an unobstructed flow for users.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Materials were selected to support both the structural integrity and environmental goals of the project. Key components include extensive glass facades for view optimization, wood for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, and concrete for durability in the rugged ski resort environment. Metal elements are included in critical infrastructure areas to withstand harsh weather conditions, while advanced insulation materials are implemented to enhance thermal performance and reduce energy loss during colder months. This thoughtful selection underscores a commitment to sustainability and an enduring connection to the 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

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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025
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