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Curvilinear Design Featuring Laminated Timber and Expansive Glass Spaces in a Spa and Community Retreat

Curvilinear Design Featuring Laminated Timber and Expansive Glass Spaces in a Spa and Community Retreat
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The curvilinear form, crafted from laminated timber and extensive glass, seamlessly integrates with the landscape to create a spa and community retreat focused on wellness and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates expansive glass elements to maximize natural light and views of the landscape.
02
Laminated timber construction supports the curvilinear form, enhancing structural integrity and aesthetics.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinctive weathering quality while improving durability.
04
Light wells are integrated to create dynamic interior lighting and enhance the spatial experience.
05
A unique beer tasting area is included, blending social and wellness functions within the retreat.

## Overview
"Ethereal" is a spa and social facility located in Iceland, designed to provide a unique experience that balances relaxation with community engagement. The project responds to its scenic environment, emphasizing a connection to nature while incorporating a comprehensive range of spa and recreational amenities intended for both casual visitors and dedicated guests.

## Spatial Configuration
The design employs an open floor plan across two levels, facilitating fluid movement and interaction among users. The ground floor includes essential services such as a café, spa reception, and treatment rooms, while the upper floor features relaxation areas and specialized beer tasting rooms. The inclusion of natural light via strategically placed windows enhances the ambiance, inviting a deeper connection to the outdoor landscape.

The layout is characterized by organic shapes, promoting a soft, welcoming atmosphere suitable for a spa environment. This configuration encourages social interaction in areas such as the spa lounge and communal spaces, fostering a sense of community among users. Features like light wells improve vertical connectivity and aesthetic continuity, further enriching the spatial experience.

## Material Selection
Materials have been carefully chosen to support the project's intent and environmental considerations. Laminated timber contributes warmth and softness, essential for creating a calming atmosphere. Concrete surfaces provide durability and contrast, while expansive glass windows ensure ample natural light and maintain visual links to the surroundings. Specific areas, particularly wet spaces, utilize tiles for practical hygiene, and insulation materials are incorporated to ensure thermal comfort in Iceland's variable climate.

The integration of these materials contributes to a cohesive sensory experience, balancing tranquil and invigorating elements that enhance the overall user experience. The design reflects a commitment to both functionality and aesthetic harmony with the natural 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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