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Timber Structures Enhanced by Vertical Geothermal Systems and Expansive Aurora Views

Author:
Robert Pepe
Timber Structures Enhanced by Vertical Geothermal Systems and Expansive Aurora Views
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Harnessing vertical geothermal systems and incorporating dark wood cladding, this retreat offers panoramic views of the aurora borealis while providing essential accommodations for nature immersion in Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes vertical geothermal systems for efficient heating and hot water.
02
Features dark wood cladding to blend with the natural landscape.
03
Includes modular guest units designed for flexible arrangements.
04
Incorporates triple-glazed windows for enhanced thermal performance.
05
Designed for optimal views of the aurora borealis from communal spaces.

### Overview
Located in Iceland, the project aims to create a retreat that emphasizes the region's striking landscapes, including its glaciers, volcanoes, and the aurora borealis. Situated south of Reykjavík and east of Lake Mývatn, the site is strategically oriented to enhance visibility of the northern lights while preserving the integrity of the natural environment. The architectural design emphasizes a harmonious relationship between human activity and nature, fostering a tranquil experience for its users.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The layout comprises interlinked structures designed for multiple functions, including guest accommodations, communal amenities, and staff residences. This configuration facilitates privacy while providing shared spaces that encourage social interaction. Guest rooms are modular, featuring slanted roofs with integrated solar panels, enabling both flexibility and sustainability. Common amenities, such as a sauna and kitchen, are strategically placed to maximize natural light and promote community engagement.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Materials are chosen with local context and climate in mind, prioritizing durability and aesthetic resonance with the landscape. Dark wood cladding offers a weather-resistant exterior while contributing to a warm ambiance. Structural elements utilize concrete for its longevity in harsh weather conditions, and triple-glazed windows optimize thermal performance while framing panoramic views. The design incorporates a vertical loop geothermal system, harnessing Iceland’s geothermal energy for efficient heating and hot water, thereby enhancing the overall sustainability of the project. Green roofs not only provide insulation but also support local ecosystems, further integrating the buildings within their natural surroundings.

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

`
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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Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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