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Charred Cedar Shingles and Geothermal Pools in a Nordic Wellness Retreat

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Charred Cedar Shingles and Geothermal Pools in a Nordic Wellness Retreat
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Incorporating charred cedar shingles and harnessing geothermal energy, the design creates a seamless connection between Icelandic landscape and wellness, offering a unique retreat focused on relaxation and communal bathing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred cedar shingles enhance durability while echoing local volcanic landscapes.
02
Geothermal energy is harnessed to heat spa pools and support sustainability.
03
The design features cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and efficiency.
04
A bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
05
Communal bathing areas encourage social interaction, rooted in Icelandic tradition.

## Mývatn Beer Spa Overview

The Mývatn Beer Spa is situated adjacent to Lake Mývatn in Iceland, an area renowned for its exceptional geological formations and cultural heritage. This facility merges Icelandic traditions of social interaction with the practice of beer brewing, creating a unique bathing and recreational atmosphere within a striking natural context. The project's intent is to enhance visitor engagement with the surrounding landscape while enriching the social fabric of the community.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The spatial organization of the Mývatn Beer Spa comprises three distinct zones, each designed to offer varied experiences. The entrance level serves as a welcoming plaza, acting as a transition space that fosters social interaction. The spa level is dedicated to relaxation, featuring hot springs and private bathing areas that enable intimate connections with nature. The brewery level highlights the brewing process, creating an environment that encourages community gatherings and cultural exchange among visitors.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

The architectural approach emphasizes the use of local materials and sustainable practices. Key components include Shou Sugi Ban shingles that reflect the appearance of volcanic formations while providing durability, and concrete that mimics the surrounding natural textures. Additionally, brass fixtures enhance the overall aesthetic while ensuring longevity, and wooden elements evoke traditional Icelandic craftsmanship. The design prioritizes ecological harmony, employing geothermal energy and efficient construction methods that align with Iceland’s dedication to sustainability. The strategic use of materials and spatial organization culminates in an environment that respects and complements the breathtaking landscape of Lake Mývatn.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

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.

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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