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Angled Roofs and Charred Shingles Enhance Connection to Nature in Icelandic Retreat

Angled Roofs and Charred Shingles Enhance Connection to Nature in Icelandic Retreat
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With an angular roof design that channels the surrounding Icelandic topography and a facade adorned with traditional motifs and charred wooden shingles, the cabin serves as a contemporary retreat that harmonizes with its natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Angular roof design reflects local geology for enhanced site integration.
02
Facade incorporates decorative motifs inspired by traditional Icelandic patterns.
03
Large glass panels maximize natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Observation deck provides sheltered outdoor space for all-weather enjoyment.
05
Materials include charred wooden shingles for weather resilience and aesthetic appeal.

### Overview

Located in Iceland, the Nordic Patterns Cabin is designed as a retreat that facilitates a connection to the surrounding landscape while ensuring comfort for its visitors. The design combines elements of traditional Icelandic architecture with contemporary practices, reflecting a character that complements the natural environment. This project emphasizes a dialogue between built and natural forms, drawing on the rich cultural heritage of Iceland.

### Spatial Strategy and Layout

The layout optimizes both communal and private spaces to enhance user experience. The ground floor encompasses shared areas, including a living room, dining area, kitchen, and changing rooms accommodating winter sports enthusiasts. The second floor hosts additional bedrooms designed for guests and staff, featuring cozy elements such as corner seating and built-in shelves. Thoughtful spatial flow is achieved through the use of corridors that connect different areas while maintaining the integrity of communal spaces, ensuring privacy for those seeking tranquility.

### Materiality and Design Features

A careful selection of durable materials reflects the local landscape while promoting integration with the environment. Timber is prominently used for structural elements and finishes, imparting warmth, while large glass panels facilitate natural light and panoramic views. Concrete serves as a stable foundation, and metal enhances the modern aesthetic of the roof and detailing.

The cabin's roof features an unconventional multi-angled design that echoes the contours of nearby mountains, optimizing both aesthetics and functionality by facilitating snow shedding. Decorative motifs on the facade, inspired by traditional Icelandic patterns, create a visual connection to the region's culture while maintaining a contemporary appeal. Additionally, a covered observation deck provides sheltered views of the dramatic landscape, enhancing the overall experience for visitors, regardless of weather conditions.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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