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Volcanic Stone Structure Integrated With Solar Technology for Sustainable Ski Retreat

Author:
Mateus Henrique Soares Da Silva
Volcanic Stone Structure Integrated With Solar Technology for Sustainable Ski Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted from volcanic stone and equipped with photovoltaic technology, this sustainable ski cabin provides a functional retreat that harmonizes with its rugged Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced volcanic stone for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that provides structural stability while maximizing interior space.
03
Equipped with photovoltaic panels, facilitating energy self-sufficiency in a remote environment.
04
Features extensive glass roofing to optimize natural light and provide panoramic landscape views.
05
Includes dedicated snow storage areas to efficiently manage winter conditions and enhance accessibility.

### Location and Context
Located in Iceland, the Mývatn Ski Cabin is positioned to take advantage of the area's dynamic landscapes, including Lake Mývatn and the Krafla caldera, which highlight Iceland's geothermal characteristics. The design approach emphasizes both respect for and integration with the natural environment, addressing the challenges posed by the local climate while providing a refuge for winter sports activities.

### Spatial Organization
The cabin's design features a strategic spatial organization divided into three functional blocks. The **Rest and Warmth Area** serves as a communal space for relaxation and social interaction. The **Private Facilities** house essential amenities, such as changing rooms and toilets, catering to individual requirements. Lastly, the **Equipment Storage** area is designated for sporting gear and includes a garage for snow grooming machinery. This thoughtful layout fosters a functional environment that accommodates diverse visitor needs while encouraging community engagement.

### Material Selection and Energy Efficiency
The construction materials of the Mývatn Ski Cabin prioritize energy efficiency and sustainability. Local volcanic stones are employed for the walls, providing significant thermal insulation, while a robust steel framework supports the roof and overall structure. Wood accents are strategically included in openings and surfaces to enhance the warmth of the interior. The incorporation of photovoltaic panels on the roof facilitates the harnessing of solar energy, thus reducing dependency on non-renewable power sources and underscoring a commitment to environmental stewardship.

In addition, the cabin is designed to withstand the region's unpredictable weather, ensuring structural integrity during extreme conditions. A septic tank system for sewage management further contributes to its sustainability goals, maintaining a low environmental footprint while ensuring a positive user 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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