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Aurora Viewing Deck Crafted from Kerto Wood and Steel Cladding in a Sustainable Community Hub

Aurora Viewing Deck Crafted from Kerto Wood and Steel Cladding in a Sustainable Community Hub
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Designed with a dedicated aurora viewing deck and constructed from Kerto wood and metal cladding, the facility serves as a multifunctional community hub that enhances engagement with the surrounding natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from Kerto wood and metal sheets for durability in harsh climates.
02
Features a dedicated observation deck designed for optimal aurora viewing.
03
Incorporates extensive glass elements to enhance natural light and external views.
04
Integrates flexible spaces that support both educational and recreational activities.
05
Utilizes thermal insulation techniques to ensure energy efficiency during extreme weather.

### Project Overview
Located in a northern region known for its stunning auroras, the design focuses on a multifunctional facility that promotes interaction with the natural environment. The intent is to create a space that facilitates various activities, enhancing the visitor experience while respecting the local ecology.

### Spatial Configuration and Functional Areas
The architectural approach draws inspiration from traditional northern design, featuring triangulated forms that reflect the surrounding mountainous terrain. The layout includes diverse functional zones such as public gathering areas for community engagement, interactive information points that educate visitors about local nature and culture, as well as amenities tailored for outdoor activities. The axial design encourages movement and exploration throughout the building, with strategic view corridors that frame the auroras and surrounding landscape.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The project employs a carefully considered palette of materials to enhance both aesthetic appeal and environmental performance. Durable metal sheet cladding provides modern visual qualities while reflecting natural light, while engineered Kerto wood plates signify an eco-friendly choice. The incorporation of glass elements maximizes natural light and visual connectivity with the external environment. Sustainability is a focal point; thermal and acoustic insulation methods ensure energy efficiency in extreme weather conditions. Additionally, the design includes features such as a dedicated viewing deck for the northern lights, providing an immersive yet comfortable experience for visitors.

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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.

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