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Geothermal Retreat Enveloped in Transparent Glass and Charred Timber Shingles

Geothermal Retreat Enveloped in Transparent Glass and Charred Timber Shingles
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Constructed with charred timber shingles and expansive glass facades, the design seamlessly integrates with the Mývatn landscape to create a geothermal spa that prioritizes relaxation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Features expansive glass facades to maximize natural light and connect visitors with the surrounding Mývatn environment.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainable building practices and environmental sensitivity.
04
The bent A-frame design provides structural stability while reflecting the organic shapes of nearby geological formations.
05
Includes dedicated pathways that encourage exploration of the natural landscape, enhancing the overall wellness experience.

### Overview

Located in the Mývatn landscape of Iceland, Gígúr integrates architectural design with the region's geological heritage. The project seeks to create a functional space for relaxation and rejuvenation while establishing a connection to its natural surroundings. By drawing inspiration from the area's unique craters, the design encapsulates both individual and communal experiences, inviting guests to engage with the environment.

### Spatial Arrangement

The layout of Gígúr is thoughtfully structured across multiple levels, each catering to distinct user experiences. The ground floor serves as the main entry point, designed to facilitate movement and social interaction through open shopping and dining areas. In contrast, the first floor transitions to a focus on wellness, featuring thermal baths, saunas, and treatment rooms organized around an organic core that mirrors the surrounding landscape. This arrangement maximizes views and fosters a serene atmosphere. Additionally, a rooftop terrace provides a space for social gatherings and community events, further anchoring the building within its environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality is a crucial aspect, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability while enhancing aesthetic appeal. Concrete provides structural integrity and forms, while extensive use of glass establishes a visual connection to the exterior, facilitating natural light and expansive views. Warmth and comfort are introduced through wooden finishes, while steel elements ensure robust support for the building's canopy. The careful selection of these materials creates a contemporary atmosphere that resonates with the earth and geothermal features characteristic of Iceland’s landscape. The integration of geothermal energy concepts further underscores the project's environmental awareness, promoting a sustainable approach to design.

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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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