Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Geothermal Heating and Curvilinear Form in a Community Ski Facility

Authors:
Hok Yin Au, Hoi Ying Beverly Tsui, Lok Ching Vanessa Chen
Geothermal Heating and Curvilinear Form in a Community Ski Facility

Project in-detail

Curvilinear structures of prefabricated concrete harmonize with geothermal heating systems to create a functional gathering space for skiers in the Myvatn region.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear concrete forms are designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
02
Geothermal foundation technology prevents frost damage while maintaining interior warmth.
03
Interactive information points educate visitors on local culture and natural features.
04
Modular construction methods allow for efficient assembly and reduced environmental impact.
05
Open-plan spaces promote community engagement and interaction among users.

### Overview

Located in the scenic landscapes of Myvatn, Iceland, The Norse functions as a dedicated sanctuary for skiers. The design integrates local cultural identity and environmental considerations, aiming to create a communal space that reflects the surrounding natural environment. By emphasizing both functionality and aesthetic appeal, the structure serves as a gathering place for visitors and highlights the region's architectural heritage.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The layout features a combination of open areas and intimate spaces designed to foster social interaction and ease of movement. Expansive interiors are complemented by dedicated zones for rest and warmth, which include comfortable seating arrangements and ambient lighting. An elevated viewing deck offers panoramic views of the picturesque landscape, enhancing the user experience by providing a direct connection to the outdoor environment. Meandering pathways further improve circulation, guiding visitors from the ski slopes to the facility while encouraging exploration of the area.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The design employs prefabricated curved concrete to create flowing architectural forms that blend with the snowy environment while maintaining structural integrity. A geothermal foundation system utilizes heat pipes to prevent frost damage, ensuring warmth within the structure. Additionally, insulated windows allow natural light to illuminate the interiors, optimizing energy efficiency. This selection of materials demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, aligning modern building practices with traditional techniques to minimize environmental impact while enhancing comfort for users.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy