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Geothermal Retreat Forged from 3d-Printed Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Geothermal Retreat Forged from 3d-Printed Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and advanced 3D-printed panels, the retreat harmonizes with its geothermal landscape to provide a sustainable escape for residents seeking immersion in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates 3D-printed panels, allowing for precise design flexibility and unique architectural forms.
03
Utilizes geothermal energy for heating, promoting sustainable living in the Icelandic climate.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that facilitates natural drainage and climatic adaptation.
05
Includes integrated outdoor thermal baths, enhancing the connection to nature and wellness.

**Project Overview**

Located in Iceland, "ísHaven" is designed to integrate human habitation within the dramatic landscape while emphasizing sustainability and cultural heritage. The intent of the project is to create a space that facilitates a connection to nature and contemporary living, reflecting the region's unique environmental context. Utilizing an A-frame geometric structure, the design draws from traditional Icelandic building methods, creating a dialogue between modern architecture and local heritage.

**Site Integration and Spatial Strategy**

The site selection maximizes the natural features of the volcanic landscape while mitigating ecological impact. The layout promotes a connection to the terrain, allowing visitors to engage meaningfully with the surrounding wilderness. The design includes communal areas, such as outdoor thermal baths for social interaction, alongside private sleeping pods that provide seclusion. This configuration offers diverse zones catering to both community gatherings and individual reflection, fostering a harmonious flow throughout the building.

**Material Selection and Environmental Performance**

The materials chosen for "ísHaven" are fundamental to its design ethos, emphasizing sustainability and regional relevance. The use of wooden shingles for cladding references traditional architecture while offering effective thermal insulation. Innovative 3D-printed panels facilitate unique forms that maintain structural integrity, and thermal insulated concrete flooring contributes to energy efficiency and durability in the harsh Icelandic climate. Compact gravel and insulation are employed to enhance thermal management, aligning with sustainable building practices. This careful selection results in a robust exterior that marries modern craftsmanship with cultural significance.

Overall, "ísHaven" exemplifies a commitment to thoughtful design that resonates with both its natural surroundings and the cultural landscape of Iceland.

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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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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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