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Snow-Resilient Design Featuring Corrugated Metal and Thermal Insulation for a Ski Lodge

Author:
Paulina Medina Garcés
Snow-Resilient Design Featuring Corrugated Metal and Thermal Insulation for a Ski Lodge

Project in-detail

Incorporating gabled roofs designed for snow retention and a water collection system, the ski lodge utilizes corrugated metal and local wood to provide a functional retreat for winter sports enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates an innovative water collection system that utilizes melted snow for heating and utility needs.
02
Gabled roofs are angled specifically to promote snow retention and minimize thermal loss.
03
Materials include corrugated metal for durability and local wood for aesthetic relevance to the area.
04
Separate functional areas create efficient workflow for both staff and guests.
05
Large windows are strategically placed to optimize natural light while enhancing views of the surrounding landscape.

## Project Overview
Located in Klasavæði Mývetnings, Kröflur, Iceland, the design of the ski snow cabin by Taller Sinapsis is informed by the region's unique climatic conditions and topographical features. The project aims to provide a functional lodge for skiers and tourists while emphasizing sustainability, user experience, and integration with the surrounding landscape. The architecture responds to Iceland’s variable weather patterns, ensuring resilience and comfort for its occupants.

## Spatial Arrangement
The cabin is organized into two main blocks to serve distinct functions effectively. Block 1 features communal areas, including a snack bar, restrooms, and a viewing deck, designed to facilitate social interaction and relaxation for visitors. In contrast, Block 2 is dedicated to operational needs, housing a garage for snow grooming equipment and storage areas for gear, optimizing both visitor experience and logistical efficiency. The entrance, strategically positioned between the gable roofs, offers protection from harsh weather and guides guests intuitively from the ski area.

## Material Selection and Sustainability
The choice of materials reflects the building’s contextual and environmental considerations. Corrugated metal is utilized for roofing to withstand snow retention, while steel beams provide structural stability. Polyurethane insulation enhances energy efficiency, ensuring thermal comfort within the cabin. Notably, an exterior water tank captures melted snow for reuse in the heating system, exemplifying the project's commitment to sustainability. The integration of solar panels further supports energy efficiency, harnessing renewable resources effectively in this snowy climate.

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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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