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Charred Wooden Shingles Enfold a Cylindrical Spa Blending with Volcanic Landscapes

Charred Wooden Shingles Enfold a Cylindrical Spa Blending with Volcanic Landscapes
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Enveloped in charred wooden shingles and shaped as a cylindrical form, the spa harmonizes with the volcanic landscape of Iceland, offering a seamless blend of wellness and nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cylindrical form is designed to resemble the surrounding volcanic craters, enhancing the visual connection to the landscape.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide durability and blend naturally with the regional ecology, minimizing environmental impact.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction while ensuring structural integrity and sustainability.
04
An infinity pool located on the roof allows for unobstructed views of the Icelandic landscape, creating a unique recreational experience.
05
The inclusion of a brewery space emphasizes community gathering, distinguishing the facility from typical spa designs.

### Overview

Located in the Skútustaðagígar region of Iceland, the ÖL-SPA project is designed to harmonize with its striking natural landscape characterized by craters, lakes, and volcanic features. The architectural form reflects the local topography, aiming to integrate human activity with the surrounding environment while providing spaces for wellness and social interaction.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The primary structure adopts a cylindrical form with sloped roofs and a facade of blackened timber and glass, enhancing its connection to the geological features of the area. Large expanses of glass optimize views of the landscape, allowing natural light to enter and creating an immersive experience for guests. Thoughtfully designed entries function as transitional spaces, employing mirrored glass to reflect the outside environment while inviting visitors into the spa.

Internally, ÖL-SPA encompasses diverse spaces dedicated to wellness and community engagement. The softly illuminated infinity pool on the roof provides an intimate setting for relaxation, with views overlooking Myvatn Lake. A centrally located brewery and social area fosters gathering and connection, complemented by a layout that carefully differentiates between public and private zones to enhance the user experience.

### Material Use and Sustainability

The construction prioritizes ethical and locally sourced materials, including timber, which reinforces the linkage to nature, and mirrored glass, which enhances both aesthetics and functionality. Corrugated metal roofing adds durability and mimics the natural terrain, while volcanic rock is utilized in landscaping to echo the area's geological character. This emphasis on materials aligns with a commitment to sustainability and reflects the principles of bio-architecture, ensuring the design responds adaptively to seasonal changes and environmental conditions inherent to Iceland.

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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.

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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