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Curved Glass Facades and Recycled Wood Create a Community Space Embracing Glacial Inspiration

Curved Glass Facades and Recycled Wood Create a Community Space Embracing Glacial Inspiration
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Curved glass facades complement the use of recycled wood, creating a community space that draws inspiration from glacial forms while fostering interaction and connection among visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved glass facades enhance natural light while connecting interior spaces to the landscape.
02
Recycled wood is utilized for structural and aesthetic purposes, minimizing environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design mirrors glacial forms, creating a distinctive profile against the skyline.
04
Flexible meeting areas adapt to various functions, promoting community interaction.
05
Strategic window placement maximizes views and invites the surrounding nature indoors.

## Overview
Located near a ski lift in Iceland, Jökulfjót's architectural design is informed by glacial geomorphology, specifically the characteristics of water flow and the contours of crevasses. The intent behind the design is to create a structure that embodies a sense of respect for its natural surroundings while optimizing aesthetic and functional performance. Sustainability is a foundational consideration in the project, leading to the selection of materials that reflect the ecological integrity of the region.

## Spatial Organization
The architectural layout of Jökulfjót is characterized by a C-shaped configuration that maximizes site utilization, taking full advantage of views and natural light. This design strategy promotes an intimate visitor experience while facilitating a clear division between public and private areas within the building. Interior spaces feature curved walls and adaptive layouts that foster interaction, enhancing the overall user experience. The inclusion of flexible meeting areas allows spaces to accommodate a variety of functions, from quiet reflection to collaborative engagements, tailored to meet the diverse needs of visitors.

## Material Selection
Materiality plays a critical role in the building's overall performance and aesthetic appeal. Key elements include ethically sourced recycled wood, which contributes warmth to interior environments; durable white concrete, selected for its weather resistance and versatility; and glass facades that facilitate transparency with the surrounding landscape. This combination enhances both the structure's ecological credentials and its ability to draw in natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere that responds to and reflects the changing conditions of the Icelandic environment.

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The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
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MICROHOME 2026
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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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