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Radiant Heating and Green Roofs in Locally-Sourced Stone Cabins Embracing Icelandic Wilderness

Author:
Praxiteles Lykos
Radiant Heating and Green Roofs in Locally-Sourced Stone Cabins Embracing Icelandic Wilderness
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Emphasizing locally-sourced stone and sustainable practices, the design integrates radiant heating and green roofs to create a collection of cabins that harmoniously connect with the Icelandic landscape for residential retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins utilize locally-sourced stone to enhance durability and integrate with the landscape.
02
Design incorporates green roofs to promote insulation and support local biodiversity.
03
Radiant heating systems leverage Iceland's geothermal resources for efficient energy use.
04
Extensive use of glass ensures panoramic views, connecting interiors with the natural environment.
05
The layout maximizes privacy while encouraging community interaction through shared spaces.

## Analytical Report on Casa Obscura

### Project Overview
Casa Obscura is situated in Iceland, designed to facilitate an immersive interaction between inhabitants and the surrounding landscape. Inspired by the principles of the camera obscura, the project takes a conceptual approach that reinterprets conventional architectural forms. It aims to harmonize with the natural environment, allowing for a deeper observation and engagement with the unique characteristics of the Icelandic wilderness.

### Spatial Organization
The design features a radial configuration of stone cabins, strategically arranged to provide unobstructed views of the landscape. Areas are divided into private retreats and communal spaces, promoting both individual relaxation and social interaction. Bedrooms oriented to the north enable residents to experience dynamic views, including the northern lights. The central communal area serves as a focal point for gatherings, balancing openness with the need for privacy. The layout also incorporates flexible accommodations and a stable for horses, supporting diverse uses while maintaining functional integrity.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and a deep connection to the rugged Icelandic environment. Stone is used for its durability and aesthetic resonance with local geology, while dark wooden shutters enhance both visual appeal and performance. Green roofs serve multiple purposes, such as improving insulation and enabling rainwater collection, fostering biodiversity within the ecosystem. The extensive use of glass in the design ensures transparency and a strong connection to the natural surroundings, while a geothermal heating system leverages Iceland's geothermal resources to promote energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Each design element collectively emphasizes an ecological approach while enhancing the user experience through thoughtful interactions with nature.

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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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