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Curved Roof Design Featuring Glazed Façades and Sustainable Wood Materials in a Ski Retreat

Curved Roof Design Featuring Glazed Façades and Sustainable Wood Materials in a Ski Retreat
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A curved, glazed façade envelops a sustainable wooden structure that seamlessly integrates with the Icelandic landscape, providing a functional retreat for skiers with impressive views and efficient circulation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved roof design optimizes snow shedding while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
Large glazed sections provide panoramic views and maximize natural light.
03
Materials chosen for durability include charred wooden shingles for weather resistance.
04
User circulation paths are strategically separated for enhanced operational efficiency.
05
Interior wood finishes create a warm atmosphere while complementing the natural setting.

### Project Overview

The Arc ski cabin is located in Iceland, strategically designed to complement the surrounding landscape while fulfilling the functional requirements of a ski resort environment. The architecture merges modern design principles with respect for traditional forms in the region, drawing inspiration from the aurora borealis and the unique characteristics of the icy terrain.

### Spatial Design and User Experience

The cabin's design features a central widening that enhances utility and social interaction, with a curved roof that reflects the contours of the snow drifts and facilitates effective snow shedding. Extensive glazing throughout the structure allows for natural light to permeate the interior and offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains, creating a sense of continuity between the indoor and outdoor environments. Careful attention to circulation patterns differentiates staff and visitor pathways, improving operational efficiency while maintaining an unobstructed flow for users.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Materials were selected to support both the structural integrity and environmental goals of the project. Key components include extensive glass facades for view optimization, wood for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, and concrete for durability in the rugged ski resort environment. Metal elements are included in critical infrastructure areas to withstand harsh weather conditions, while advanced insulation materials are implemented to enhance thermal performance and reduce energy loss during colder months. This thoughtful selection underscores a commitment to sustainability and an enduring connection to the landscape.

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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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