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Bitumen Roof and Concrete Structure Embracing Nature in Iceland’s Hospitality Retreat

Author:
Sarah Magdalena Hopfner-heindl
Bitumen Roof and Concrete Structure Embracing Nature in Iceland’s Hospitality Retreat
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The incorporation of a green roof and the use of a bitumen insulating membrane in a concrete structure creates a sustainable retreat that fosters community interaction amidst Iceland's striking landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The guesthouse is designed with a green roof that integrates local flora.
02
A system of identical walls creates a cohesive and unified spatial experience.
03
The fireplace serves as a central social area, encouraging community interaction.
04
Hot tubs and bathtubs are strategically placed for direct views of the landscape.
05
A tapered concrete ceiling supports the green roof while enhancing structural integrity.

The Embedded Icelandic Thermal Springs Guesthouse is located in Iceland, where it connects closely with the unique landscape. The design centers on integrating with the natural environment, creating a building that blends into its surroundings. As a space for accommodation and social interaction, the guesthouse encourages a communal experience while providing guests with easy access to local scenery.

Design Concept
The concept focuses on embedding the building within the site. Inspired by nearby stone boulders, the guesthouse appears as a continuation of the landscape. The walls maintain a uniform design that gives a sense of coherence throughout the space. By strategically omitting some wall sections, the layout creates common areas that invite guests to gather, with the fireplace serving as a focal point for social activities.

Materials
A notable feature is the green roof, which references Icelandic architectural traditions. This roof not only enhances the building's environmental efficiency but also helps with insulation. The roof includes a bitumen insulating membrane composed of two layers, ensuring it is resistant to roots. The use of insulation and a vapor barrier further supports energy performance throughout the structure.

Amenities and Functionality
The building includes several amenities, such as hot tubs, bathtubs, and seating nooks, which are positioned to support a smooth flow between inside and outside. These features enrich the experience for guests, allowing them to enjoy relaxation and the beauty of nature. With these elements thoughtfully placed, visitors can engage more fully with their surroundings.

The tapered concrete ceiling supports the green roof and maintains the overall integrity of the guesthouse. This design detail enriches the building’s ecological focus while adhering to practical standards of construction and use.

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

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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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