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Curvilinear Concrete Cabin Merging Glass Transparency With Geothermal Functionality

Author:
Elitta Moubarak
Curvilinear Concrete Cabin Merging Glass Transparency With Geothermal Functionality

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms of concrete and expansive glass façades integrate seamlessly with the Krafla Caldera's landscape, offering a ski lodge that emphasizes environmental sensitivity and user experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design influenced by the region's geological forms enhances integration with the landscape.
02
Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light and views of the Northern Lights.
03
Sustainable materials include locally sourced concrete and natural wood finishes.
04
The building utilizes a cantilevered structure for aesthetic appeal and structural efficiency.
05
Interior ramps promote fluid circulation and connection to the outdoor environment.

## Overview

Recaldera is a ski snow cabin located in the Krafla Caldera of Iceland, designed to coexist with the dramatic natural features of its environment. The structure draws inspiration from the region’s geological formations, reflecting the dynamic interplay of ice and volcanic activity. Its conceptual framework aims to create a retreat where human activity aligns with the raw beauty of the surrounding landscape.

## Spatial Dynamics

The architectural layout features a fluid progression through sweeping curves that encourage connection with the natural setting. The design includes both indoor and outdoor circulation that enhances the visitor experience, allowing for seamless transitions between interior spaces and exterior vistas. Notably, the ramped entrance guides users to varying levels, culminating in an observation platform oriented towards the Northern Lights, fostering appreciation of Iceland's unique sky.

## Material Selection

Material choices for Recaldera emphasize a dialogue with the icy environment. Concrete serves as the structural foundation, offering stability in the challenging landscape, while steel trusses contribute to a lightweight aesthetic needed for cantilevered sections. Large glass facades ensure transparency, providing panoramic views and enhancing the sense of space. Interior wood elements add warmth, contrasting with the colder exterior materials and reinforcing the relationship between the built form and its natural context.

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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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