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Embracing Ice Forms With Charred Wood Shingles And Reinforced Concrete For A Winter Retreat

Authors:
Lilian Marie Thiry, Mia-magdalena Siller, Florian Taxer, Maximilian Böhm
Embracing Ice Forms With Charred Wood Shingles And Reinforced Concrete For A Winter Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed using charred wood shingles and reinforced concrete, the retreat seamlessly integrates into its snowy environment, providing essential amenities for winter sports enthusiasts while fostering communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles that enhance durability in harsh climates.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and minimal environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal snow shedding and natural insulation.
04
Interactive infopoints embedded within the structure provide local slope information.
05
A central warmth area with a fireplace fosters community interaction among visitors.
The "Snow Carving Cave" is an architectural project designed to provide a functional and aesthetically integrated facility within a snowy landscape. This building serves as a multifunctional hub for winter sports enthusiasts, combining essential amenities with areas for rest and social interaction. The design aims to harmonize with its environment, adopting a form that mimics natural snow mounds and ice formations.

The architecture prioritizes user experience by ensuring ease of access and comfort. Visitors entering will find organized pathways that lead to critical facilities such as restrooms and equipment storage, catering to both skiers and casual visitors. A central warmth area features a fireplace and seating, fostering community engagement in a relaxing atmosphere. Large windows offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, promoting a connection with nature.

Innovative features enhance the project’s practical and educational aspects. Dedicated storage areas efficiently manage outdoor equipment, while interactive infopoints provide essential local information, bridging recreational activity with community awareness.

Integration with Natural Environment
A key aspect of the Snow Carving Cave is its fluid architectural form, designed to complement the natural terrain. The structure's roof appears to slope gently into the landscape, minimizing visual impact. This organic design approach utilizes materials that reflect the environment, such as reinforced concrete with a textured finish that resembles natural elements. The extensive use of glass in the façade not only maximizes daylight but also creates a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the winter landscape.

Sustainability and User-Centric Design
Sustainability is woven throughout the architectural design. Efficient insulation materials ensure energy conservation, crucial in cold climates, while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Overall, the project encourages social interaction through its communal spaces while offering individual comfort through well-considered spatial organization. The balance between private and shared areas facilitates a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with both locals and tourists.

For those interested in further details about the project's design, including architectural plans and sections, it is encouraged to explore the project presentation. This exploration will provide a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and concepts that define the Snow Carving Cave.
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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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