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Glass Atrium with Burned Wood Veneer Embracing Community Agriculture

Authors:
Jose Lopez, Jung Chen
Glass Atrium with Burned Wood Veneer Embracing Community Agriculture
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A transparent glass atrium, complemented by burned wood veneer, creates a vibrant space dedicated to organic farming and community engagement, seamlessly integrating with the stunning backdrop of Volcano Hverfjall and Lake Myvatn.
5 key facts about this project
01
A greenhouse integrated within a public atrium promotes local agricultural practices.
02
The building’s design maximizes views of Volcano Hverfjall and Lake Myvatn.
03
Burned wood veneer highlights sustainability while enhancing aesthetics.
04
Modular layout allows for future expansion and adaptability.
05
Pathways connect to natural surroundings, encouraging exploration and engagement.

"Green Beacon" is set in a scenic spot that provides views of Volcano Hverfjall and Lake Myvatn. The project focuses on sustainability and serves as a community gathering place. Its design centers around a large transparent volume that connects the indoor environment with the natural landscape.

Concept and Layout

The design features a long glass atrium that serves as the central space of the building, allowing natural light to penetrate deep within. This openness helps create a connection with the surroundings, making the environment feel spacious and inviting. A radial layout maximizes the use of land while leaving room for future growth, ensuring that the structure remains adaptable as needs change over time.

Functional Organization

The layout includes clearly defined public and private areas. Visitors can find a greenhouse, restaurant, and multi-purpose rooms, each located to encourage interaction among users. Service areas such as kitchens and storage are included in the design, thoughtfully integrated to support the overall function of the building without disrupting the flow of public spaces.

Material Choices

The building utilizes materials like steel structure insulation blocks, burned wood veneer, and greenhouse glass cladding. These choices are practical and align with the goals of energy efficiency and sustainability. Elevated wood decks and insulated reinforced concrete provide structure and durability while enhancing the overall aesthetic.

Design Features

The atrium space is used for organic farming and community events, emphasizing a commitment to local agricultural practices. Pathways throughout the design lead visitors to trails and nearby natural pools, encouraging exploration of the beautiful landscape. This thoughtful placement promotes engagement with the environment, while maximizing natural light and geothermal resources, enhancing the building's energy efficiency.

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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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