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Curvilinear Design Featuring Local Stone and Thermal Mass in a Sustainable Retreat

Authors:
Bingchen Duan, Yuxuan Cai, Yiting Wang
Curvilinear Design Featuring Local Stone and Thermal Mass in a Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

A curvilinear structure crafted from local stone and designed for optimal thermal mass offers a harmonious retreat that seamlessly integrates with the Icelandic landscape, providing a tranquil space for relaxation and community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with curvilinear forms for minimal visual impact on the landscape.
02
Utilizes local stone to enhance thermal mass and energy efficiency.
03
Features large glass panels that frame panoramic views of the surroundings.
04
Incorporates an accessible roof space for outdoor gatherings and activities.
05
Equipped with passive cooling systems to optimize indoor climate control.
The Hidden Chalet is an architectural project designed to blend seamlessly with the natural Icelandic landscape. This build prioritizes an organic relationship between the structure and its surroundings, while serving as a vacation retreat for visitors seeking tranquility and connection with nature. The design approach emphasizes sustainability, utilizing local materials and passive energy strategies to minimize environmental impact.

The project's primary function is to provide a comfortable living space that fosters community while respecting its ecological context. The layout features open communal areas alongside private quarters, all oriented to capitalize on views and natural light. Extensive use of glass facilitates visual continuity between indoor and outdoor environments.

Materials play a crucial role in the aesthetic and functional aspects of the chalet. Concrete forms the main structural component, providing durability and thermal mass. The extensive use of glass enhances connectivity with the surroundings while timber is incorporated in both support elements and interior finishes, adding warmth. Given the local climatic conditions, the design utilizes stone for specific façade treatments, ensuring structural cohesion with the landscape.

Unique Design Approaches
The Hidden Chalet employs a curvilinear form that emerges from the topography, diverging from traditional rectangular designs prevalent in similar projects. This approach reduces the visual footprint of the building, promoting an unobtrusive presence in the landscape. The roof is designed not only to shed snow but also to create an accessible outdoor space, enhancing the functionality of the structure while providing vantage points for enjoying the aesthetic appeal of the region.

The orientation of the building is a critical consideration, with large windows placed strategically to maximize sunlight exposure. This aspect not only contributes to energy efficiency but also frames natural vistas, allowing occupants to experience seasonal changes in the landscape.

Architectural Details
Key architectural details include the seamless integration of renewable energy systems, such as solar panels and geothermal heating, showcasing advances in ecological design practices. The layout encourages natural ventilation and passive cooling, further reducing reliance on artificial climate control systems. Inside, minimalist finishes reflect the project's commitment to simplicity and respect for nature.

The Hidden Chalet represents a thoughtful response to its environment through design that prioritizes harmony with the landscape while serving practical needs. For those interested in exploring the specifics of the architectural plans, sections, and designs, a detailed project presentation is available, offering further insights into the unique architectural ideas that define this retreat.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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