Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Volcanic Ash Facade and Flexible Interiors in Sustainable Ski Lodge Design

Authors:
Amin Jovan Theophilus , Wan-chen Wu, Kuo Cheng Hsiao, Shi-jie Yang
Volcanic Ash Facade and Flexible Interiors in Sustainable Ski Lodge Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with volcanic ash and a rough-textured facade, the design integrates flexible interiors to serve as a sustainable ski lodge that harmonizes with the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with volcanic ash integrated into the concrete for enhanced environmental context.
02
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize structural stability and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
03
Features flexible interior spaces that can be easily adapted for various community activities.
04
Incorporates geothermal heating for energy efficiency, reducing environmental impact throughout the year.
05
Connects directly to ski paths and hiking trails, promoting year-round outdoor recreational use.

### Project Overview
Located in Iceland's dramatic volcanic landscape, the design aims to reflect the dynamic nature of the environment through its architectural form and material choices. This structure targets both locals and visitors, enhancing their interaction with the surrounding terrain while serving as a functional year-round center for activities such as skiing and hiking.

### Materiality and Integration
The project employs a thoughtful selection of materials tailored to the local context. Concrete forms the primary structural element, offering durability, while volcanic ash is integrated into the mix to harmonize with the geological character of the region. Wood accents the interior, promoting warmth and comfort, establishing a contrast between the robust exterior and the inviting interior space. This blend not only reinforces the structural integrity but also underscores a commitment to sustainability by utilizing locally sourced materials.

### User Experience and Functionality
The design prioritizes adaptability and fluidity within its interior layout, thereby accommodating a range of activities and fostering interaction among visitors. The facade features a rough-textured appearance that references natural rock formations, visually connecting the building to its environment. Pathways designed for skiing and hiking extend the structure's utility, encouraging outdoor engagement throughout the year. Additionally, sustainable systems such as geothermal heating and rainwater collection support the overall commitment to eco-friendly practices, ensuring both comfort and reduced environmental impact.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy