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Geothermal-Driven Retreat With Corrugated Aluminum Cladding and Natural Wood Interiors

Author:
Daniel Sasama
Geothermal-Driven Retreat With Corrugated Aluminum Cladding and Natural Wood Interiors

Project in-detail

Constructed with corrugated aluminum cladding and complemented by natural wood interiors, the design maximizes geothermal energy use while providing essential amenities for winter sports enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed in a geothermal zone, the hut harnesses renewable energy for heating and hot water.
02
The design features an expandable hatch mechanism to adapt to seasonal usage demands.
03
Natural wood interiors enhance air quality and user comfort without excessive finishes.
04
Corrugated aluminum roofing provides durability against extreme weather conditions.
05
The A-frame structure efficiently manages snow accumulation while offering panoramic views.

**Project Overview**

The Smakka° Snow Cabin is located near the Krafla geothermal area in Iceland, designed as a ski hut that integrates with the surrounding environment. The intention is to contribute to both the aesthetic and functional needs of visitors while respecting the delicate landscape. The architectural design is grounded in traditional Icelandic styles, particularly the classic roof house, achieving a balance between heritage and contemporary requirements.

**Spatial Organization and Functionality**

The cabin features a dual-level layout that caters to diverse user needs. The lower level includes essential amenities such as a self-service refreshment station and locker rooms, specifically catering to the ski community. The upper level offers accommodation and a versatile multipurpose space, enhanced by panoramic views that allow for an adaptable usage. The design emphasizes efficient flow between spaces while carefully preserving privacy.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**

Materials selected for the Smakka° cabin reflect a commitment to sustainability and environmental integration. Corrugated aluminum sheeting is utilized for roofing, providing durability and weather resistance. The façade is clad in horizontal wooden panels, enhancing visual warmth and connection to the natural surroundings, while interior surfaces utilize natural wood to maintain a straightforward aesthetic. The foundation employs concrete for structural stability with minimal maintenance needs. Additionally, the project harnesses geothermal energy for heating and hot water, coupled with a natural ventilation system to reduce energy consumption, further underscoring its sustainability initiatives.

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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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