ICELAND - SQUARES CABIN

The concept of a sky cabin in Iceland is for a place so enchanting—full of mystery and ancient stories from human history, yet so new and untouched by humans—that it is almost impossible to imagine an architectural design capable of both blending seamlessly into the landscape and harmonizing with nature. Any concept, no matter how well thought out, risks appearing as an intrusion in a place where it does not belong.

This architectural concept is not for nature or the landscape; it is for people and their comfort.

The design theme includes essential facilities such as toilets, changing rooms, and a self-service refreshment area. It also features a dedicated space for storage and sporting equipment, such as ski gates and safety netting, as well as a garage large enough to accommodate a snow groomer.

Additionally, the relationship between spaces and accessibility is a key consideration.

A space that adapts to local needs for the skiing community, while simultaneously meeting international standards for visitors. To achieve this, both the local community and visitors must collaborate, sharing space and time, exchanging stories, and embracing cultural differences.

The common area, the warm space for rest and relaxation, should serve as the central point—the soul of the shelter. In this space, which connects all the necessary functions, people will gather to share stories, tell jokes, and build connections.

Utilities provided are electricity and cold water. The space will be heated with an electric central with heating units placed in the celling.

For wastewater disposal, we proposed a collection and recycling system for both the water from the sinks(grey water) and the water from toilets(black water). It is a simple, natural and ecological system that uses plants, more precisely the roots of plants the are full of microorganisms capable of digesting the polluting elements in the water. The system involves a serious of basins through which the water circulates and it gets cleaned under the action of microorganisms. The residues from the filtration of the black water will be deposited on the bottom of the pool, where it will be periodically heated by an electric heater system until all the water is removed and a natural fertilizer will result. This type of system requires periodic maintenance, but it can also become a different activity that this place can offer. It can contribute to the positive change of the sterile Icelandic environment. The fertilization on the local soil can count in the extensive action of reforestation and restoration of the soil after the massive deforestation that took place in the medieval period.

The main access is through the southwest side. It is a protected and visibly marked access. Because this shelter wants to be warm, it will receive its visitors directly in the open and welcoming soul, in the Rest and Warmth Area.

This space communicates with the kitchen, which separates two parallel hallways that provide access to the bathrooms and changing rooms. The fireplace located in the middle of the space is a common part for both the kitchen and the rest area and marks the access to the information point.