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Turf-Covered Roof and Glass Facades Blend Seamlessly with Natural Landscape in Ski Facility

Authors:
Yi Ren Jonathan Christian , Mei Fen Chang
Turf-Covered Roof and Glass Facades Blend Seamlessly with Natural Landscape in Ski Facility

Project in-detail

Featuring a turf-covered roof that enhances insulation and glass facades that invite panoramic views, this facility serves as a central hub for skiers, blending seamlessly with its rugged Icelandic surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a turf-covered roof for enhanced insulation and environmental integration.
02
Incorporates extensive glass facades to maximize natural light and views.
03
Features a central courtyard designed to foster community engagement among visitors.
04
Includes a ski slope integrated into the building's structure for seamless terrain access.
05
Employs charred wooden shingles for durability and weather resistance.

# Analytical Report on the Iceland's Ski Compass Architectural Design Project

## Project Overview

**Location:** Near the Krafla Crater at the foot of the Skiðavellir Mountains, Krafla, Iceland
This project serves as a hub for both professional and recreational skiers, integrating with the surrounding landscape to emphasize the region's cultural heritage and the spirit of Nordic skiing. The design aims to enhance outdoor experiences within the Icelandic ski community while fostering connections among users.

## Conceptual Framework

### Community-Centric Design
The architectural strategy centers on a human-focused approach, with a layout that clusters various functions around a central courtyard. This arrangement promotes social interaction and community engagement. Key elements include a central fireplace as a gathering point, an interactive information point for visitors, and essential amenities such as changing rooms, rest areas, and an equipment rental station.

### Architectural Inspiration and Materiality
Inspired by traditional Icelandic turf houses, the design incorporates resilient building techniques suited for the region's harsh climate. The selection of materials emphasizes local resources and sustainability. Extensive use of glass enhances connectivity with the outdoor environment, while wood offers warmth through structural elements. Turf acts as an insulative layer, reflecting traditional practices while harmonizing with the landscape.

## Unique Architectural Features and Sustainability

### Roof Configuration and Dynamic Geometry
The building's design features an innovative roof that doubles as a ski slope, blending functionality with architectural expression. Its angular form mimics the natural terrain, inviting exploration of its exterior. A rooftop garden provides a seasonal green space, further enhancing the multifunctionality of the structure. Additionally, an observation deck oriented northward offers views of the Northern Lights, enriching the visitor experience.

### Sustainability Measures
A closed-loop water system plays a crucial role in the building's environmental strategy, efficiently managing water use by capturing and recycling it. The integration of advanced insulation and energy-efficient design principles contributes to reduced overall energy consumption, affirming the project's commitment to sustainability within the extreme Icelandic climate.

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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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