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Curvilinear Timber Structure Featuring Charred Shingles and Panoramic Views for Ski Enthusiasts

Author:
Leiman Thomas Tara Heke
Curvilinear Timber Structure Featuring Charred Shingles and Panoramic Views for Ski Enthusiasts

Project in-detail

A curvilinear form wrapped in charred wooden shingles and expansive glazing offers a direct connection to the surrounding landscape while providing a functional retreat for skiing enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design reflects the motion of skiing, enhancing spatial interaction.
02
Panoramic windows frame views of the surrounding mountains for immersive experiences.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and aesthetic warmth.
04
Elevated platform offers a safe vantage point for observing winter sports.
05
Integrated storage solutions streamline equipment management for users.
The architectural project “The Carve” is situated in Iceland and serves as a cabin designed specifically for skiing enthusiasts. The structure adopts a form that reflects the dynamic movement of skiers, characterized by an elongated arc that represents the trajectory of skis carving through snow. This architectural design seeks to engage with the surrounding landscape while providing a functional space for both relaxation and recreation.

The primary function of this cabin is to provide shelter, equipment storage, and viewing areas for skiing events. The layout prioritizes accessibility and comfort, allowing users to seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor environments. The architectural strategy not only emphasizes utility but also fosters a connection to the natural beauty of the Icelandic mountains.

Unique Design Approaches

A critical aspect of this project is its integration with the landscape. The use of laminated timber as a primary material is intentional, offering both aesthetic qualities and practical benefits such as insulation and sustainability. This choice of material aligns with ecological considerations, supporting the cabin’s ability to withstand Iceland's harsh weather conditions.

The cabin features expansive glass windows that frame views of the mountainous terrain, promoting a relationship with the natural surroundings. This transparency invites natural light and creates an open atmosphere within the cabin's interior, enhancing the occupants' experience.

The innovative spatial organization includes an elevated platform that allows occupants to observe skiers on the slopes, creating an immersive spectator experience while ensuring safety. Adjacent to the main cabin, a detached garage provides practical storage solutions for ski equipment, demonstrating a focus on the needs of users.

Functional details, such as the incorporation of concrete for structural stability, further reinforce the design’s practical application. Each element of the project exemplifies a thoughtful understanding of materiality and architectural form, resulting in a space that serves both recreational and aesthetic purposes.

Analytical Insights

The design of “The Carve” illustrates a balanced approach to architecture that values both personal enjoyment of winter sports and the protection of the environment. The project stands apart from similar cabins through its focus on experiential design, where architectural elements work in concert to enhance interaction with nature. The smooth, continuous curves of the structure, influenced by the skiing experience, provide a distinctive character that sets it apart from conventional designs.

In summary, “The Carve” is an architectural endeavor that redefines the relationship between sport and landscape through its innovative use of materials and thoughtful integration with the site.

For further insights into the project, readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that detail these unique architectural ideas and showcase the project's comprehensive design intent.
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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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