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Corten Steel Shelter with Wind Turbine and Geothermal Heating for Remote Trekking Accommodation

Author:
Lukas Beyerle
Corten Steel Shelter with Wind Turbine and Geothermal Heating for Remote Trekking Accommodation
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Constructed from corten steel and designed with an integrated wind turbine and geothermal heating, the shelter provides an efficient and sustainable accommodation solution for trekkers navigating the harsh Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes corten steel for durability and integration into the natural landscape.
02
Incorporates a wind turbine to generate renewable energy on-site.
03
Features geothermal heating for energy-efficient climate control.
04
Modular design allows for easy assembly and potential expansion.
05
Optimizes communal spaces to enhance social interaction among guests.

### Overview

The Rotor Home, developed for the Iceland Trekking Shelter Competition in 2016, addresses the needs of trekkers and nature enthusiasts in a challenging Icelandic landscape. This design reflects a comprehensive understanding of the environmental context and temporary living requirements, prioritizing both functionality and user experience. It responds to climatic and geological conditions, positioning itself as an integrated component of its surroundings.

### Spatial Configuration and Function

The modular design consists of five distinct segments that maximize utility and interaction. The top segment features a wind turbine that not only generates electricity but also collects rainwater to support sustainable operations. A common room on the second floor fosters community engagement among visitors, while the third and fourth floors are dedicated to living accommodations for up to eight guests, designed with bunk beds and ample storage for comfort in confined spaces. The engineering room operates the wind turbine and manages energy resources, incorporating geothermal systems to optimize efficiency. The circular layout enhances movement flow and reduces wind resistance, ensuring a cohesive experience for all users.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices significantly shape both the visual and functional aspects of the Rotor Home. Corten steel has been selected for the façade due to its durability and aesthetic adaptability, evolving in appearance with environmental exposure. Aluminum supports the structural framework while maintaining lightweight characteristics conducive to sustainability. Generous glazing allows natural light penetration and scenic views of the landscape, while wood features throughout the interiors provide warmth and a connection to nature. Insulating sandwich panels enhance thermal performance, critical in Iceland’s climate. This combination of materials not only emphasizes robustness but also aligns with principles of sustainable design, showcasing a commitment to both functionality and ecological responsibility.

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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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