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Grass-Planted Roof and Cross-Laminated Timber Structure in a Ski Facility

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Grass-Planted Roof and Cross-Laminated Timber Structure in a Ski Facility
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A grass-planted roof and cross-laminated timber panels define a ski facility that blends seamlessly with its Icelandic landscape while providing essential amenities for winter sports enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
A grass-planted roof enhances insulation and blends the facility into the surrounding landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while minimizing carbon footprint.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
04
Flexible interior partitions allow for adaptable space usage based on visitor needs.
05
A central drainage system reuses melted snow for restroom facilities, promoting sustainability.

# Architectural Analysis Report: Iceland Ski Snow Cabin

## Project Overview
Located in the rugged landscapes of Iceland, the Ski Snow Cabin functions as a multifunctional facility tailored for skiers. Its design seeks to enhance the skiing experience while emphasizing sustainable building practices and innovative construction techniques. The project integrates harmoniously with its mountainous surroundings, reflecting a deep consideration for environmental context and user engagement.

## Spatial Configuration
The cabin's layout revolves around a fluid and interconnected floor plate that accommodates a variety of user-oriented spaces. Key facilities include a snow groomer garage, equipment checking room, unisex changing area, restrooms, and a refreshing area, all designed to facilitate interaction among visitors. The configuration allows for multiple pathways, echoing the dynamic nature of skiing and providing opportunities for both active engagement and relaxation in the tranquil environment.

### Material and Sustainability Strategy
The material palette has been selected with an emphasis on sustainability and visual harmony with the landscape. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) serves as the primary structural component, minimizing the cabin's carbon footprint, while plywood interiors create a warm aesthetic. Polycarbonate boards in flexible partitions enhance adaptability in usage. A grass-planted roof not only provides insulation but also visually integrates the structure into its natural setting. The use of high-performance insulation and strategically placed skylights ensures thermal comfort and maximizes natural light, further emphasizing an environmentally conscious design approach. Notably, a central drainage system collects and reuses melted snow, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability through innovative resource management.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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