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Ski Cabin Featuring Subterranean Basalt Walls and Low-E Glass Facades

Authors:
Harleen Kaur , Lavisha Achara , Khushi Sanghi , Ananya Goyal
Ski Cabin Featuring Subterranean Basalt Walls and Low-E Glass Facades

Project in-detail

A ski cabin with a roof doubling as a ski slope and constructed from subterranean basalt walls and low-E glass facades offers an immersive experience in Iceland's rugged landscape for winter recreation enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
A roof designed as a ski slope providing direct access to outdoor recreation.
02
Subterranean basalt walls offer enhanced insulation and durability.
03
Extensive use of low-E glass maximizes natural light while minimizing heat loss.
04
Incorporation of local pine wood creates a warm interior aesthetic.
05
Wellness facilities include integrated hot springs and steam rooms.

## Overview
Located in Iceland, Hrímviti is a ski cabin designed to serve outdoor adventure enthusiasts. The project aims to provide an engaging platform for skiing directly from the cabin, effectively integrating with the surrounding landscape and enhancing the overall skiing experience. The design is informed by the local topography, creating an environment where guests can appreciate Iceland's natural beauty while enjoying the functionality of the cabin.

## Spatial Organization
The layout of Hrímviti consists of interconnected areas tailored for various functions while promoting a cohesive experience. Public spaces include a communal speakeasy bar with large windows that frame views of the surrounding landscape. Relaxation amenities draw inspiration from the nearby Myvatn Nature Baths, featuring hot springs and steam rooms to enhance wellness. The design also offers private quarters for guests, ensuring comfort and privacy. Thoughtful circulation allows for efficient movement throughout the cabin, facilitating ease of access to skiing and other amenities.

## Material and Sustainability
The selection of materials is integral to Hrímviti's design, focusing on local resources and environmental responsibility. Basalt is used for structural support, while low-E glass enhances energy efficiency by optimizing natural light. Locally sourced pine wood adds warmth to the interior, and porcelain tile is employed for durability in wet areas. The project's sustainability initiatives include geothermal heating, which utilizes the earth's natural resources, and design strategies that capitalize on Iceland's unique daylight patterns, reducing energy consumption and promoting a comfortable living environment.

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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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