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Curvilinear Glass Facade and Natural Stone Integration in an Eco-Friendly Winter Retreat

Author:
Elitta Moubarak
Curvilinear Glass Facade and Natural Stone Integration in an Eco-Friendly Winter Retreat

Project in-detail

The seamless integration of a curvilinear glass facade and locally sourced stone creates a sustainable ski retreat that harmonizes with Iceland's rugged landscape while providing essential amenities for winter recreation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building's design emphasizes natural light through extensive glass surfaces integrated into the curvilinear facade.
02
Local stone was used to enhance sustainability and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
03
A unique snow access feature allows direct connectivity to the ski slopes from multiple points of the building.
04
The blend of cross-laminated timber panels with charred wood shingles creates a distinctive texture and resilience against harsh weather.
05
The open plan layout facilitates social interaction while maintaining distinct areas for relaxation and recreational activities.
The Recaldera ski snow cabin is an architectural project located in the unique landscapes of Iceland, designed to serve as a retreat for ski enthusiasts. This facility harmonizes with its environment through its innovative design and purposeful functionality, catering to both recreation and relaxation. By integrating architectural principles with the natural topography, the project enhances user experience while promoting sustainability.

The cabin's structure reflects the local geology, characterized by organic forms that flow with the landscape. It is composed of durable materials such as concrete, glass, steel, wood, and natural stone, distinguishing it from typical ski lodges. The incorporation of substantial glass elements facilitates visual connections to the outdoors, maximizing natural light and engagement with the surrounding environment.

Design Efficiency and User Engagement

What sets the Recaldera ski snow cabin apart from conventional projects is its emphasis on merging indoor and outdoor living. This is achieved through expansive terraces that offer direct access to the ski slopes, enhancing the overall functional arrangement. The ground floor includes essential amenities such as ski equipment storage, changing rooms, and restrooms, providing direct access to the outdoor activities.

The first floor of the cabin serves as a communal space, featuring a lounge and dining area designed for social interaction while providing extensive views of the beautiful Icelandic scenery. The layout is strategically organized to facilitate movement and flow, ensuring that users can navigate seamlessly between various areas.

Innovative Structural Solutions

The structural design of the Recaldera cabin employs a series of slender columns along angular forms, permitting large open spaces devoid of intrusive supports. This approach maximizes the usable area while maintaining structural integrity. The design prioritizes energy efficiency by utilizing sustainable materials and systems, emphasizing a commitment to ecologically responsible architecture.

The accessibility features, including ramps and elevators, promote ease of movement throughout the cabin and enhance its usability for all guests. The interplay between architectural design and surrounding nature provides a cohesive experience, allowing users to immerse themselves in the beauty of the location.

For those interested in further understanding the complexities of the Recaldera ski snow cabin, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the thoughtful design choices that define this project. This analysis invites readers to appreciate the nuances of the project and explore the precise details that contribute to its unique character.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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