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Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Create Harmonious Mountain Cabin

Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Create Harmonious Mountain Cabin
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Crafted from cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, the cabin seamlessly integrates into the rugged Icelandic landscape, providing a communal retreat designed for warmth and social interaction among winter visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted primarily from cross-laminated timber, enhancing structural strength and thermal insulation.
02
The exterior features charred wooden shingles, promoting durability and fire resistance.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while ensuring snow load efficiency.
04
Sunken seating around the central fireplace fosters communal warmth and engagement.
05
Large glass panels provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding Icelandic landscape.

## Architectural Analysis Report: "Time Valley" Snow Cabin

### Project Overview
The snow cabin is situated in a mountainous region known for its striking natural landscapes and established ski culture. Inspired by the geometry of Icelandic volcanic craters, the design aims to create a harmonious relationship with the environment while fostering social interaction among users. The cabin's layout and aesthetics reflect the characteristics of its surroundings, offering both functionality and an inviting atmosphere.

### Spatial Strategy and Circulation
The cabin's layout is crafted to enhance user experience through thoughtful spatial composition.

- **First Floor Plan**: An expansive entryway transitions into a circular gathering space, designed to facilitate social interaction. The strategically located garage allows ease of access without compromising the flow of the interior, culminating in a central fireplace area featuring sunken seating for communal warmth.

- **Second Floor Plan**: This level includes a designated information area and a viewing deck that provides panoramic views of the mountainous terrain. Generous windows ensure abundant natural light and visual continuity between interior spaces and the external landscape.

### Materiality and Ecological Considerations
Material choices in the construction are driven by ecological sensitivity and cultural relevance.

- **Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)**: The primary structural material, CLT, offers both durability and aesthetic warmth.
- **Pine Wood Cladding**: Used for exterior surfaces, this material evokes traditional cabin warmth and complements the cabin's natural setting.
- **Black Shingle Roofing**: Reflecting the look of lava rocks, the roofing material situates the cabin within its volcanic context while contributing a modern silhouette.
- **Glass**: Extensive use of glass enhances visual connectivity to the landscape and contributes to the overall luminosity of the interior.

### Design Outcomes and Community Focus
The design outcomes emphasize sustainability, cultural resonance, and adaptation to local climate conditions.

- **Sustainability**: By incorporating locally-sourced, durable materials, the cabin exemplifies environmentally responsible architectural practices.
- **Cultural Heritage**: The design acknowledges Icelandic traditions by incorporating elements that evoke communal mountain living.
- **Climate Adaptation**: The architectural form and choice of materials reflect a commitment to resilience, ensuring the cabin remains functional and inviting in a harsh mountainous climate.

The "Time Valley" snow cabin effectively integrates modern design principles with ecological awareness and cultural significance, anchoring it in its unique geographical context.

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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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