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Dynamic Roof Structure Crafted from Steel and Insulation for a Northern Icelandic Tourist Hut

Dynamic Roof Structure Crafted from Steel and Insulation for a Northern Icelandic Tourist Hut
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The dynamic steel roof, designed to resemble flames, integrates advanced insulation and reinforced concrete to provide a sustainable and functional tourist hut for outdoor enthusiasts amid the volcanic landscapes of Northern Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dynamic roof design mimics flames for snow shedding.
02
Constructed with reinforced concrete for durability in extreme weather.
03
Ground-source heat pump utilized for energy-efficient heating.
04
Multi-tiered layout promotes visitor interaction and functionality.
05
Panoramic viewing platforms enhance the connection to the landscape.

### Project Overview

Located in the Viki volcano area of Northern Iceland, the tourist hut "A Song of Ice and Fire" is positioned near an established ski resort, addressing the growing demand for visitor services in the region. The facility provides accommodations and equipment repairs for tourists while integrating with the surrounding natural environment.

### Spatial Organization

The interior layout of the hut is designed to accommodate a broad range of visitor activities over two distinct floors. The first floor serves as a central hub, featuring a lobby and service area for social interaction, along with a maintenance and equipment store for skier convenience. Additionally, restroom and changing facilities are included to support outdoor enthusiasts.

On the second floor, the dining room and restaurant offer panoramic views of the Icelandic landscape, enhancing the dining experience. Roof landings and viewing platforms provide further opportunities for visitors to engage with the scenic beauty surrounding the structure. This organization prioritizes accessibility through multiple entry points, ensuring ease of movement for skiers and hikers.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection for the hut balances functionality with aesthetic consideration. The primary structure is composed of reinforced concrete, ensuring strength and durability in heavy snow and ice conditions. Steel is utilized for the roof framework, providing resilience and flexibility.

Insulating walls are strategically designed to optimize heat retention, accommodating the area's extreme climate while contributing to overall energy efficiency. A ground-source heat pump is incorporated to enhance sustainable heating solutions, aligning with the project's environmental goals. Interior wood finishes add warmth, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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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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