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Triangular Steel Framework with ETFE Facade in a Natural Landscape Setting

Authors:
Pit Bernard, Luca Ben Kreisel, Luis Rauscher, Larissa Holz
Triangular Steel Framework with ETFE Facade in a Natural Landscape Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with a triangular steel framework and a lightweight ETFE facade, the facility seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape to provide an inviting recreational space for visitors in the Arctic.
5 key facts about this project
01
ETFE facade utilized for enhanced thermal insulation and natural light penetration.
02
Triangular steel trusses designed to withstand harsh Arctic weather conditions.
03
Integrated viewing deck for panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
04
Innovative siting approach that maximizes sun exposure throughout winter.
05
Warmth area featuring refreshment facilities to support outdoor activities.

### Overview

Arctic Twist is situated in the Myåhn wilderness, where it addresses both the aesthetic and functional challenges posed by the Arctic environment. The design integrates with the surrounding landscape while responding to climatic conditions, providing a setting for reflection and engagement with nature. The structure aims to create an inviting space for visitors to experience the natural beauty of the region alongside modern facilities.

### Material and Environmental Considerations

The architectural design utilizes a selection of materials that enhance both performance and resilience. Steel forms the backbone of the structure, offering durability and enabling expansive interior spaces. The façade employs ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) foil, a lightweight material featuring a triple-layer configuration that creates thermal insulation and maximizes natural light. Glass elements are incorporated strategically to increase visibility and establish a connection with the outdoor environment, effectively illuminating the interior.

The building's orientation is informed by thorough sun path and climate analyses that guide decisions on window placement and structural openings. This ensures that the structure captures sunlight to optimize heating and illumination, particularly in the darker winter months. The careful integration of these considerations allows Arctic Twist to maintain a minimal environmental footprint while catering to visitor comfort and experience.

### Spatial Organization

The interior layout of Arctic Twist is designed for optimal visitor engagement, featuring distinct zones that promote interaction with the landscape. A panoramic viewing deck provides expansive vistas of the terrain, while designated areas for rest and refreshments facilitate comfort during outdoor activities. Additionally, the design includes necessary facilities such as changing rooms and washrooms, enhancing visitor convenience. The spatial configuration not only supports functional needs but also reinforces the relationship between the structure and its natural surroundings, promoting a cohesive visitor experience.

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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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