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Lightweight Aluminum Cabin Enhanced by Etfe and Rainwater Collection Systems for Outdoor Living

Authors:
Jacob Riman, Theo Jones
Lightweight Aluminum Cabin Enhanced by Etfe and Rainwater Collection Systems for Outdoor Living
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Constructed from a lightweight aluminum frame with ETFE panels and equipped with rainwater harvesting, the cabin offers trekkers a mobile and sustainable shelter in Iceland's diverse landscapes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a lightweight aluminum frame for enhanced portability.
02
Utilizes ETFE panels to optimize natural light while minimizing weight.
03
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable resource management.
04
Features adjustable footings for stability across diverse terrains.
05
Modular design allows for customizable configurations based on user needs.

## Overview

Located in Iceland's rugged terrain, the PEAK project is designed as a mobile cabin tailored for trekkers, emphasizing landscape integration and sustainability. The intent is to enhance the outdoor exploration experience while providing essential living amenities in a minimalist, functional design. The architecture leverages modularity and mobility to accommodate a transient lifestyle, addressing the unique characteristics of the Icelandic environment.

## Spatial Configuration

The cabin's design features a lightweight aluminum frame that supports multiple functions, including sleeping, cooking, and cleaning spaces. This modular setup allows for easy transportation by hikers, enabling the cabin to be relocated across various landscapes, from mountains to glaciers. The adaptable structure promotes not only a nomadic way of living but also minimizes environmental impact, reinforcing an eco-conscious approach to outdoor activities.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Key materials used in the PEAK project are selected for their functionality and environmental performance. The aluminum frame provides durability and resilience against harsh weather, while flexible canvas walls offer insulation without significant weight. ETFE panels maximize natural light and energy efficiency, and local stones contribute to both structural integrity and aesthetic harmony with the surroundings. Moreover, the cabin is equipped with a rainwater harvesting system and solar panels, underscoring a commitment to sustainable resource management and energy use.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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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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