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Basalt and Glass Harmony in a Volcanic Landscape Spa

Authors:
Silvia Baroni, Vasiliki Katsara
Basalt and Glass Harmony in a Volcanic Landscape Spa

Project in-detail

Nestled within Iceland's volcanic landscape, the combination of locally sourced basalt and expansive glass creates a distinctive Beer Spa that seamlessly integrates wellness and education around the brewing process.
5 key facts about this project
01
Locally sourced basalt is used prominently in the facade, linking the structure to its volcanic surroundings.
02
The design incorporates large glass panels to maximize natural light and views of the landscape.
03
Beer baths are a unique feature that directly engage visitors with the brewing process.
04
Sustainable materials and energy-efficient construction methods are emphasized throughout the project.
05
The layout promotes an intuitive flow between relaxation areas and educational spaces.

### Project Overview
Located in Mývatn, Iceland, the Beer Spa is an architectural project that reflects the region's volcanic landscape and the historical significance of beer production. The design strategically integrates natural elements—land, fire, and water—to create a space dedicated to relaxation and enjoyment, while being sensitive to the surrounding fragile environment. By emphasizing the interplay between architecture and landscape, the project establishes a meaningful connection with its context.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The Beer Spa features a carefully considered spatial arrangement that facilitates various functions while enhancing visitor engagement. Key areas include an entrance and reception for welcoming guests, brewery and beer tasting zones that promote interaction and education about brewing, and specialized beer bath zones designed for sensory relaxation. Additional amenities such as changing rooms and recreation spaces ensure guest comfort while observations areas offer vistas of the picturesque landscape, integrating the overall wellness experience with nature.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and local identity. Locally sourced basalt stone is employed for its durability and regional relevance, while large glass windows enhance natural light and provide views of the surroundings. Concrete is used for structural components and wood is incorporated into interior detailing to create warmth. The combination of robust basalt accents and expansive glass facilitates a dialogue between the building's solidity and the transparency characteristic of modern architecture. Through the use of local materials and passive design strategies, the project minimizes its environmental footprint while optimizing energy use.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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