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Magma Stone Facade and Sitka Spruce Interiors Define a Sustainable Ski Retreat

Magma Stone Facade and Sitka Spruce Interiors Define a Sustainable Ski Retreat
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Crafted with a facade of locally sourced magma stone and warm interiors of Sitka spruce, the facility serves as a sustainable retreat for winter sports enthusiasts in the captivating landscape of Mývatn, Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from locally sourced magma stone, enhancing thermal efficiency and aesthetics.
02
Interior cladding utilizes Sitka spruce, providing warmth and structural integrity.
03
The design incorporates geothermal heating, reducing environmental impact.
04
Roof mimics the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless visual connection.
05
Features an interactive display for educating visitors about local ecology.

# Architectural Design Analysis Report: Viósýni Ski Cabin

## Overview
Located in the Mývatn region of Iceland, the Viósýni Ski Cabin is designed to enhance visitor engagement with the dramatic volcanic landscape while serving as a functional retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. The cabin's architectural intent centers on creating a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment, reflecting the area's natural characteristics through its form and materials.

## Spatial Strategy
The spatial organization of the cabin is carefully planned to maximize connection with the landscape and enhance user experience. Upon entry, visitors encounter a modest information center that provides essential updates while fostering an immersive relationship with the environment. The design incorporates reception and lounge areas that prioritize views of the Northern Lights, integrating natural phenomena into the interior. Functional zones, including changing rooms and technical spaces, are strategically positioned to serve both practical needs and promote social interaction, while features such as an interactive display educate visitors about local ecology.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The material selection for the Viósýni Ski Cabin primarily emphasizes local resources, aligning the cabin's aesthetic with its environmental context. Composite cladding made from local magma stone and Icelandic Sitka spruce structural elements not only provide durability but also embody the region's geological identity. The roof design mimics local topography and doubles as a viewing deck, enhancing visitor engagement with the landscape. Sustainable practices are further reinforced through geothermal energy integration, utilizing local thermal power plants to minimize ecological impact and enhance energy efficiency. The foundation employs a concrete slab supplemented with an effective drainage system, ensuring stability and addressing site hydrology. Interior furnishings, made from natural fibers, contribute warmth and enhance overall occupant comfort.

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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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Competition organisers

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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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