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Grass Roof Retreat With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Author:
Jonah Dahlin
Grass Roof Retreat With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

A grass roof complements the cross-laminated timber structure and charred wooden shingles in a design that emphasizes sustainability and energy efficiency, creating a cozy retreat for ski enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Grass roof designed for enhanced insulation and biodiversity.
02
Integrated snowcat garage for efficient snow management.
03
Use of charred wooden shingles for durability and fire resistance.
04
Exquisite large glass facades to maximize natural light and views.
05
Zoned interior layout separates operational spaces from public areas.

### Overview

Located in an alpine region, the design of the Ski Snow Cabin emphasizes enhanced skiing experiences while integrating sustainable architectural practices. The project draws inspiration from traditional ski cabins, merging functionality with contemporary aesthetics to create a user-friendly environment. Key considerations include optimizing thermal insulation and addressing snow management needs, both of which are essential in its mountainous context.

### Material Palette

A thoughtfully selected range of materials contributes to the cabin's integration within its environment. The green roof promotes thermal insulation, mitigates heat loss, and enhances the surrounding ecosystem. Wooden cladding not only offers durability but also evokes warmth reminiscent of classic Icelandic cabins. Large glass facades facilitate natural light penetration, increasing solar heat gain and improving energy efficiency. Concrete elements are incorporated structurally to deliver resilience against harsh weather conditions, creating a robust foundation for the building.

### Spatial Organization

The design prioritizes user experience through strategic spatial organization. The exterior features a sloped roof that prevents snow accumulation while facilitating efficient snow plowing, enhancing both maintenance ease and visual harmony with the landscape. Extensive windows provide panoramic views of the ski slopes and invite natural light into the interior, enriching the atmosphere. Internally, the layout comprises a snowcat maintenance bay, inclusive changing facilities, and designated staff areas, which promote operational efficiency. Public rest areas on the second floor, characterized by tall ceilings and lunch spaces, further enhance the visitor experience while ensuring a clearly defined flow that separates operational zones from guest areas.

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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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