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Glulam Frame and Basalt Integration in a Sustainable Cabin Design

Authors:
Jonathan Ugochukwu Chimobi Udemezue, Christoffer Rostvad
Glulam Frame and Basalt Integration in a Sustainable Cabin Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing a glulam frame and local basalt, the cabin seamlessly merges with its Icelandic landscape, providing an energy-efficient retreat for winter sports enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced basalt in construction for improved site integration.
02
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to enhance structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features extensive glazing to maximize natural light and landscape views.
04
Employs glulam for efficient framing and sustainability in material choice.
05
Includes a rooftop viewing deck designed for observing natural phenomena.

## Overview
The Twin Peaks cabin is located in the Skíðasvæðið area of Iceland, a popular destination known for its scenic beauty and accessibility. This architectural endeavor integrates sustainable design practices with the surrounding landscape, drawing inspiration from traditional Scandinavian forms while emphasizing ecological awareness. The intent is to create a retreat that fosters a strong connection between the indoor environment and the natural surroundings, facilitating an immersive experience for occupants.

## Spatial Organization
The layout of Twin Peaks is structured into distinct functional areas that promote interaction and accessibility. Central to the design is the main room, serving as a hub for activities, which includes an information center and library. A rooftop viewing deck enhances the connection to the outdoors by providing panoramic vistas of the landscape, while a dedicated snow groomer garage ensures year-round usability. The cabin’s design incorporates multiple levels, allowing access from both the ski slope and the main access road, facilitating ease of entry for visitors.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The material palette of Twin Peaks has been carefully selected to enhance sustainability and reflect the local context. Key materials include glued laminated timber (Glulam) for structural components, insulating glass for energy efficiency, and basalt or lava stone, which ties the design to Iceland’s geological heritage. These materials not only contribute to the durability of the cabin in harsh weather but also reinforce its visual and aesthetic connection to the site. Efficient insulation and energy management systems further support the environmental objectives of the project, minimizing its ecological footprint while promoting the use of local resources.

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

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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

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