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Runic Inspired Coffee House with Pitched Roof and Sustainable Wood Frame

Author:
Liliya Efanova
Runic Inspired Coffee House with Pitched Roof and Sustainable Wood Frame
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Constructed with a wooden frame and sandwich panels, the coffee house draws inspiration from the runic alphabet, incorporating a pitched roof design that suits its snowy environment while serving as a community gathering space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mannaz name references the runic alphabet, emphasizing cultural heritage.
02
Pitched roof design accommodates heavy snow loads typical of the region.
03
Constructed with a wooden frame to enhance sustainability and natural aesthetics.
04
Integrated anti-vandal shutters offer security while maintaining visual appeal.
05
Sandpaper finishes provide a unique tactile quality to the exterior surfaces.

The Mannaz Coffee House is located in Northern Europe and represents a fusion of traditional Scandinavian architecture and modern design. It serves as a community hub, focusing on functionality while embracing cultural history. The design concept captures the essence of the region, making the coffee house not just a place for beverages, but a reflection of local identity.

Cultural Significance

The name “Mannaz” derives from the runic alphabet and means "man" or "person." This choice establishes a connection to Scandinavian heritage. It gives the coffee house historical depth, creating a space that resonates with visitors and reflects local customs and traditions. The design evokes a sense of shared history, allowing patrons to engage with the past while enjoying the present.

Architectural Form

A pitched roof is a vital feature of the building, designed to handle the heavy snow loads common in the area. This choice not only ensures safety but also aligns with traditional roof designs found throughout Northern Europe. The form maintains practicality, blending well with its surroundings and contributing positively to the local landscape.

Material Selection

The commitment to sustainability is evident in the materials chosen for the construction. A wooden frame promotes a natural aesthetic while ensuring eco-friendly practices. Sandwich panels are used to enhance insulation, making the structure well-equipped to deal with cold temperatures. The exterior features sandpaper finishes that provide a tactile quality, supporting the overall modern yet organic look of the building.

Security Measures

Functional aspects such as anti-vandal shutters increase safety for users while also allowing for flexible interaction with the outside environment. These features help create a welcoming space that feels secure. Inside, the design is inviting, encouraging patrons to linger while enjoying their time in the coffee house.

The combination of a sloping roof and overhanging eaves casts dynamic shadows that change throughout the day, adding an engaging visual aspect. This feature emphasizes the relationship between light and space, enhancing the overall experience for those who visit.

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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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