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Rust-Finished Structures Nestled Within Volcanic Landscapes for Community Wellness

Rust-Finished Structures Nestled Within Volcanic Landscapes for Community Wellness
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Combining a rust-finished exterior with a seamless integration into the volcanic landscape, the facility offers unique beer bathing experiences while fostering community engagement and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Emphasizes a rust-finished facade that blends with the volcanic landscape.
02
Features a bent A-frame design enhancing structural efficiency and aesthetics.
03
Incorporates geothermal heating systems to optimize energy use.
04
Includes dedicated spaces for beer bathing, promoting wellness and relaxation.
05
Utilizes locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.

### Overview

Craterhaus is situated in the distinct geological landscape of Myvatn, Iceland, where it engages with the natural environment while serving as a facility for relaxation and social interaction centered on brewing. The design draws inspiration from the local volcanic topography and aims to create a harmonious relationship between the built structure and its surroundings, reflecting the region's geological features.

### Spatial Strategy

The building's design features undulating roofs that mimic the lakes in the vicinity, establishing a cohesive visual relationship with the landscape. Internally, the layout comprises various key areas, including a beer bath area that emphasizes wellness, a stargazing deck designed for celestial observation, and dedicated spaces for beer tasting and brewing. This arrangement fosters community engagement and interaction among visitors through open and interconnected spaces.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The choice of materials underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and integration with the environment. Corten steel, concrete, glass, and galvanized steel profiles have been selected for their durability and aesthetic harmony, while waterproof membranes ensure resilience against Iceland’s harsh climate. By utilizing local resources, the design minimizes transportation emissions and enhances the building's ecological footprint. Panoramic glass walls facilitate passive solar heating, contributing to energy efficiency throughout the colder months.

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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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