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Seasonally Adaptive Ski Cabin with Mass Timber Frame and Geothermal Heating

Seasonally Adaptive Ski Cabin with Mass Timber Frame and Geothermal Heating
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Blending seamlessly with its snowy surroundings, the mass timber frame and geothermal heating create a sustainable retreat designed for winter sports enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Seasonally adaptive design minimizes visual impact in winter months.
02
Mass timber frame construction enhances structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Geothermal heating system reduces energy consumption and environmental footprint.
04
Large glass facades provide panoramic views while maximizing natural light.
05
Horizontal louvres control snow accumulation and optimize indoor climate.

**Project Overview**

Located in the Northern Myvatn Region of Iceland, the Snowcatcher Ski Cabin is designed to serve dual functions that enhance the skiing experience while integrating with the surrounding landscape. The two-story design of the cabin prioritizes both aesthetic simplicity and seasonal adaptability, allowing it to reflect the serene beauty of its environment throughout the year.

**Spatial Configuration and Functionality**

The cabin's interior is systematically arranged to accommodate leisure and operational needs. The ground level features an entrance area that functions as a check-in and gathering space, alongside essential amenities such as restrooms and changing rooms for post-ski convenience. A sunken lounge area, centered around a fireplace, provides a comfortable setting with expansive views through large glass panels. On the second level, the dining area is designed to enhance the user experience with elevated sightlines, while multi-functional spaces allow guests to engage in food preparation and service at their discretion.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**

Constructed with a mass timber frame, the cabin blends structural integrity with aesthetic appeal. The choice of materials is intentional, with large glass panels fostering a connection to the landscape and concrete used for durability and thermal mass. Steel louvres serve multiple purposes, acting as sun shading and snow management elements while contributing a contemporary design aesthetic. The integration of a geothermal heat pump underscores a commitment to sustainability, minimizing the ecological footprint and ensuring energy efficiency within the challenging climate of the region.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
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