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Curvilinear Structure with Gabion Walls and Geothermal Heating in an Icelandic Ski Refuge

Authors:
Lisa Victoria Ryzhikov, Julia Pearle Rine, David Lang Young, Elizabeth Anne Morgan
Curvilinear Structure with Gabion Walls and Geothermal Heating in an Icelandic Ski Refuge

Project in-detail

Utilizing gabion walls and a curvilinear form, the ski refuge seamlessly integrates with the rugged Icelandic landscape while employing geothermal heating to create a sustainable retreat for winter adventurers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local gabion walls filled with stones to blend with the surrounding landscape.
02
Incorporates geothermal heating systems, enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing structural integrity in harsh weather conditions.
04
Large glass panels frame views of the Northern Lights while ensuring thermal performance.
05
Integrates outdoor platforms for panoramic viewing of Iceland's diverse natural scenery.

### Overview

Located in the Myvatn region of Iceland, the ski refuge is designed to complement the area's diverse geological features, including volcanic terrains and geothermal landscapes. This architectural endeavor emphasizes exploration and self-discovery amid nature, inviting visitors to navigate varying terrains and engage with their surroundings. The design reflects the dual themes of being "lost" and "found," embodying a metaphor for personal and environmental journeys.

### Spatial Configuration and Circulation

The building's form employs a dynamic configuration of curvilinear shapes integrated with more rigid structures, which not only enhances visual interest but also facilitates natural movement throughout the space. Visitors approach the refuge via pathways that blend with the natural contours of the landscape, creating an immersive journey that culminates in strategically placed viewing platforms. These areas offer engaging perspectives of the surrounding terrain and natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights, while ensuring privacy.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A carefully curated material palette enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design. Gabion baskets filled with local stones serve as structural elements, promoting a sense of integration with the environment and regulating thermal properties. The exterior, finished in concrete, echoes the ruggedness of the landscape, while wood accents on the interior foster a warm atmosphere. Large glass panels invite natural light and panoramic views, significantly contributing to the refuge's environmental aspirations. The incorporation of geothermal energy, sunlight-oriented windows, and rainwater harvesting systems further exemplifies a commitment to sustainability, encouraging visitors to connect with the local ecosystem.

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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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