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Rammed Earth Walls and Patina Steel Elevate a Community-Centric Ski Retreat

Authors:
Hyun Lee, Hyunwoo Ha, Jongho Moon
Rammed Earth Walls and Patina Steel Elevate a Community-Centric Ski Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced rammed earth and durable patina steel, the ski cabin serves as a communal retreat that fosters social interaction and connection amidst Iceland’s winter landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced rammed earth, providing thermal mass and insulation.
02
The facade incorporates patina steel for durability and aesthetic contrast with snow.
03
Features a central fireplace designed to foster communal interaction among visitors.
04
Includes outdoor lounge areas for immersive experiences in the natural surroundings.
05
Integrates a geothermal heating system for sustainable climate control and efficiency.

**Overview**
The Open Hearth ski cabin is located in the snow-covered landscapes of Iceland. Its design emphasizes community and social interaction among visitors, drawing on the concept of gathering around a central element, reminiscent of ancient traditions. The building's architectural intent is to serve as a multifunctional space that provides both shelter and a communal hub, fostering shared experiences during harsh winter conditions.

**Site Context and Spatial Configuration**
Strategically positioned to enhance its relationship with the surrounding environment, the cabin contrasts dark stone materials with the white snow of the landscape. The central fireplace serves as the focal point, surrounded by walls that create a sense of enclosure while enabling communal activities. This layout effectively mitigates the effects of blizzard conditions, offering visitors a refuge where they can connect with one another and their environment.

**Materiality**
The selection of materials demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and regional authenticity. The façade is clad in black patina stainless steel, providing durability and a contemporary aesthetic. Wooden frames introduce warmth to the interior, while rammed earth, sourced from local volcanic soil, connects the structure to the Icelandic landscape. The inclusion of heated wooden flooring enhances comfort and promotes social engagement, while concrete elements contribute to structural stability. Lastly, waterproof foamed glass insulation supports thermal performance during extreme weather conditions.

**Functional Design and Unique Features**
The floor plan is organized into distinct functional zones, including storage and equipment check areas, an interactive information point for visitors, and rest areas designed for tranquility. The open-plan layout promotes social interaction around the central fireplace, while outdoor lounge areas extend the cabin's usability, allowing for interaction with nature. Changing rooms provide practical support for skiers, facilitating transitions between outdoor activities and relaxation.

**Environmental Considerations**
The cabin incorporates sustainable systems, including a sewage management system utilizing Iceland's geothermal energy for hot water circulation. This approach minimizes environmental impact while ensuring hygienic waste management, reflecting a broader commitment to environmental stewardship within the design.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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