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Charred Wooden Shingles and Engineered Timber Panels Shape a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Jaden Mialszygrosz, Ken Catubig
Charred Wooden Shingles and Engineered Timber Panels Shape a Sustainable Community Hub
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Charred wooden shingles and engineered timber panels harmonize with the Mývatn landscape, creating a community center that emphasizes sustainability while fostering social interaction and educational opportunities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while promoting a natural aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
04
A green roof system integrates local plant species to support biodiversity.
05
Flexible interior layouts accommodate diverse community activities and gatherings.

The Iceland Lake Mývatn Community House serves as a functional and versatile space designed to foster community engagement while respecting the natural environment. Located in the Mývatn region, known for its geothermal activity and rich biodiversity, the structure integrates architectural design with the surrounding landscape to create a harmonious interaction between built and natural forms. This community center facilitates various activities, including public gatherings, educational programs, and workshops, addressing the social needs of the local population.

The building is characterized by its organic form, which echoes the local topography. The architectural design leverages significant amounts of glazing to ensure visual connections with the picturesque views of Lake Mývatn and the surrounding geological features. The extensive use of wood, engineered timber, and concrete highlights a focus on sustainable material choices. By selecting materials that promote insulation and energy efficiency, the project aims to reduce its environmental footprint while enhancing user experience.

Sustainable design principles are integral to the architecture of the Community House. The incorporation of a green roof system features local vegetation, providing ecological benefits and blending the building with its landscape. Natural ventilation systems optimize air quality within the structure, which is particularly important in a region that experiences substantial seasonal climate variations. The design prioritizes user comfort and well-being while promoting a low-impact development approach that aligns with community values.

A notable aspect of the project is its emphasis on community identity and cultural representation. The interior layout includes flexible spaces that can adapt to various functions, reflecting the diverse needs of the community. By creating multipurpose areas that encourage interaction, the design fosters social cohesion and inclusivity among residents and visitors alike. The architectural composition underscores a commitment to biophilic design, enhancing the connection between users and the natural surroundings, resulting in an environment conducive to gathering and collaboration.

The community house manifests the intersection of architecture, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. The design outcomes align with a broader vision for creating supportive community spaces that respect and reflect the unique characteristics of their surroundings. For those interested in further understanding this project, exploring elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas and practical considerations that define this community space.

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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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