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Lava Stone Informed Spaces Crafted From Local Larch For Sustainable Ski Facilities

Authors:
Anssi Kristian Auvinen, Valentin Valotie
Lava Stone Informed Spaces Crafted From Local Larch For Sustainable Ski Facilities

Project in-detail

Crafted from local larch and featuring lava stone finishes, the facility provides a sustainable retreat for skiing enthusiasts while integrating seamlessly with Iceland's enchanting landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using locally sourced larch, enhancing environmental harmony.
02
Incorporates lava stone finishes for improved thermal properties.
03
Features a strategically positioned viewing deck for northern lights observation.
04
Utilizes geothermal heating, aligning with regional energy practices.
05
Designed with compost toilets to promote sustainable waste management.

## Project Overview
Located in the Myvatn region of Iceland, the LAB is an architectural project designed to support local skiing enthusiasts and tourists. The site is characterized by its striking natural landscapes, including vistas of the northern lights and the geological formations surrounding the Krafla crater. The intent of the design is to create a space that connects with these natural elements while adhering to sustainable building practices.

## Material and Structural Strategy
The LAB emphasizes sustainable material choices that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. Untreated larch panels sourced locally minimize transportation impacts, while a lava stone aggregate finish reflects the region’s volcanic geology and enhances thermal efficiency. Zinc-coated steel provides resilience against the variable Icelandic climate, complemented by extensive glazing that fosters a strong visual connection between interior spaces and the outdoors. The architecture adopts flowing, organic shapes that symbolize natural movement, with structures arranged in a circular configuration to encourage communal interaction while maintaining privacy.

### Interior Configuration and User Experience
Inside, the interior layout prioritizes warmth and natural light. The design features a central gathering space with a fireplace, creating a welcoming environment for visitors. Key elements include changing rooms equipped for skiers, washrooms utilizing compost toilets to promote ecological responsibility, and self-service refreshment areas designed to meet user needs efficiently. The interior furnishings reflect the earthy tones of the exterior materials, ensuring a cohesive and comfortable atmosphere throughout the facility.

Sustainability is further achieved through geothermal heating, borehole wells, and greywater recycling systems, contributing to the LAB's overall self-sufficiency. The architecture demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency with thermal insulation strategies that optimize energy conservation while maintaining user comfort.

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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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