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Glulam Frame and Basalt Integration in a Sustainable Cabin Design

Glulam Frame and Basalt Integration in a Sustainable Cabin Design
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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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