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Panoramic Glazing and Sloping Walls in a Serene Icelandic Retreat

Author:
Valentin Grukhin
Panoramic Glazing and Sloping Walls in a Serene Icelandic Retreat
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With its panoramic glazing and sloping walls that enhance light exposure and connection to the landscape, the guest house offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Iceland’s natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
Panoramic glazing above beds maximizes natural light and landscape views.
02
Sloping walls provide privacy while connecting rooms to outdoor spaces.
03
Wooden rails enhance structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
04
Color palette reflects local natural elements, promoting a harmonious feel.
05
Distinctive graphic rug defines the living area, adding texture and interest.

The Iceland Thermal Springs Guest House is set against a distinctive landscape in Iceland, designed to provide relaxation and a connection with nature. The overall design focuses on blending indoor and outdoor environments, creating a space that invites guests to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding them. The architecture combines modern elements with practical features, resulting in a welcoming atmosphere for visitors looking to unwind.

Architectural Layout

The layout optimizes how spaces are organized, making it easy for guests to move around. Upon entry, visitors find themselves in a hall that includes a cash register area and transparent shelves. These displays showcase various accessories and bags, while the transition to the dressing room is smooth, keeping the flow open and inviting.

Guest Room Design

The guest rooms are located on the second level and feature large windows above the beds. This design choice opens up views of the Icelandic landscape, allowing sunlight to fill the rooms. The sloping ceiling creates an impression of height and space, making the interiors feel airy and light. Each room includes a private patio, separated by sloping walls that maintain privacy while providing access to outdoor views.

Materiality and Finishes

Throughout the guest house, the choice of materials contributes to a consistent design feel that aligns with the surrounding environment. Wooden rails are used as key structural elements, adding warmth and connecting the spaces to nature. In the bathrooms, smooth natural tones and accent tiles come together to create a balanced and calming atmosphere, enhancing the functionality of these essential areas.

Common Areas

The design also considers shared spaces such as hallways, a lobby, a café, and a pool. Each area encourages interaction among guests while also offering opportunities for quiet relaxation. The arrangement and features of these common spaces foster a sense of community, making it possible for guests to connect with one another.

A notable detail is the rug with a unique graphic pattern in the living area, which helps define the space while adding texture and comfort. This element enhances the overall experience, inviting guests to feel at home in a carefully designed setting.

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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

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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