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Grass Roof Shelter Built with Local Stone and Steel for Trekking Comfort

Author:
Peder Ulven
Grass Roof Shelter Built with Local Stone and Steel for Trekking Comfort
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Constructed with locally sourced stone and a grass roof, this trekking cabin provides a sustainable shelter integrating communal spaces and innovative design for outdoor enthusiasts navigating Iceland’s diverse terrain.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced stone that blends seamlessly into the landscape.
02
Features a grass roof to enhance thermal performance and support local biodiversity.
03
Incorporates communal hammocks for versatile space usage and privacy.
04
Utilizes large, triple-glazed windows for maximum natural light and insulation.
05
Designed with a central heating system powered by solar energy for sustainable warmth.

## Project Overview

The Iceland Trekking Cabin, designed by Peder F. Ulven, aims to provide a sustainable accommodation solution for trekkers within Iceland’s rugged landscape. This design is contextualized by the region's volcanic activity, harsh weather conditions, and unique topography, ensuring that the cabin functions effectively as a refuge during adverse climatic events. The use of local materials is a fundamental aspect of the project, aligning with a commitment to sustainability while also enhancing the practicality and comfort for users.

## Material and Structural Strategy

The cabin's construction utilizes local stone, integrated into a wire mesh framework to create reinforced stone cubes that provide both structural integrity and visual harmony with the surrounding environment. Steel beams offer essential support, enabling the cabin to withstand the region's severe weather. Large, triple-glazed windows are strategically placed to optimize natural light and provide expansive views while maintaining energy efficiency. Interior features, such as hammocks that serve as both sleeping and privacy solutions, illustrate a creative approach to spatial organization.

## Functional and Spatial Design

The layout of the cabin is thoughtfully designed to accommodate the needs of trekkers. A central cooking area encourages communal interaction, while flexible leisure spaces promote relaxation after strenuous outdoor activities. The inclusion of shower and sauna facilities addresses wellness needs after trekking, emphasizing a comprehensive user experience. Additionally, effective heating is provided by an efficient fire system, alongside designated storage areas for gear, ensuring both organization and cleanliness. The design also takes into account geographical considerations, strategically positioning the cabin near rivers for easy access to water resources while minimizing the ecological footprint.

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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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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