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Celestial Retreat Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wood Shingles

Authors:
Tania Gebauer, Eugenio Ortuzar, Eugenio Ortuzar, Beltran Lihn, Roberto Astete
Celestial Retreat Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wood Shingles
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Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels and charred wood shingles, this retreat emphasizes a connection to the Northern Lights while providing a unique accommodation experience in a remote natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light while minimizing material waste.
04
Underground guest rooms immerse visitors in the landscape while maintaining comfort.
05
Terraces are strategically positioned for optimal stargazing and aurora viewing.

### Overview

Located in a remote area renowned for its clear views of the Northern Lights, the project focuses on creating an immersive experience that fosters a connection between inhabitants and the natural environment. The design philosophy resonates with celestial phenomena, particularly the Aurora Borealis and the starry night sky, aiming to integrate architectural elements with the surrounding landscape.

### Spatial Strategy and Organization

The site layout comprises distinct zones designed to enhance user experience. Public areas, private guest quarters, and communal facilities are arranged in circular configurations that evoke patterns of natural constellations. The visitor center serves as a central hub for social interaction, encouraging communal engagement and orienting guests toward the sky. Its circular form symbolizes unity, while the design employs locally sourced materials such as timber and grass, promoting insulation and ecological harmony.

Private guest zones are situated underground, promoting a deeper immersion in the natural surroundings while maintaining modern conveniences. These spaces utilize earth and eco-friendly materials for insulation and feature large openings that facilitate natural light, maintaining a visual connection to the outside environment. Additionally, the guest area includes durable, weather-resistant tents constructed from translucent waterproof fabric and polymer insulation, allowing unobstructed views of the night sky. The terraces are designed for optimal celestial observation, integrating seating arrangements that invite exploration and engagement with the universe.

### Sustainability and Cultural Integration

The project prioritizes ecological sensitivity, utilizing sustainable building practices and materials that align with local environmental characteristics. Architectural elements draw inspiration from traditional regional structures, creating a dialogue between historical context and contemporary design. This approach not only enhances the cultural significance of the site but also supports the local ecosystem. Furthermore, the design promotes stargazing and observation of the Northern Lights, establishing its appeal as a destination for both astronomy enthusiasts and nature admirers.

Incorporating these principles, the architectural forms reflect the natural topography, reinforcing the overarching theme of a "natural constellation." The result is a cohesive environment where the architecture and landscape coexist, elevating the experience of visitors while fostering a profound appreciation for the night sky.

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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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