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Basalt-Clad Retreat Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Thermal Baths Surrounding Natural Landscapes

Authors:
Jane Margaret Perry, Paul Oconnell
Basalt-Clad Retreat Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Thermal Baths Surrounding Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

Constructed with basalt cladding and cross-laminated timber, the brewery and spa complex is designed to blend seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape while providing a serene space for wellness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced basalt for cladding, reinforcing connection to the natural context.
02
Cross-laminated timber is employed for structural elements, enhancing sustainability and insulation.
03
The design integrates extensive glazing to capture panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
04
A bent A-frame design facilitates efficient snow runoff while maintaining traditional regional aesthetics.
05
Thermal baths are strategically placed outdoors, providing direct engagement with the Icelandic environment.

### Project Overview
The proposal outlines a brewery and spa complex located in Iceland, designed to complement the region's natural landscape while providing a unique user experience. The intent is to establish a destination that focuses on relaxation, wellness, and enjoyment of local produce, utilizing local materials and acknowledging the site's geographical context. The complex is oriented to maximize views of the surrounding pseudo-craters, lagoons, and distant mountains, ensuring that the design harmonizes with the spectacular scenery.

### Spatial Strategy and Form
The architectural layout consists of interconnected clusters reminiscent of traditional Icelandic farm buildings, allowing for intuitive navigation and enhanced visibility of the landscape. The steeply pitched roofs are designed to align with regional architectural styles, facilitating effective snow runoff. Key amenities, such as the café, spa, and outdoor terraces, are strategically placed to take full advantage of the northern vistas, creating an environment that fosters a connection between the indoor spaces and the natural surroundings.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The selection of materials emphasizes both sustainability and aesthetic integration. Cross-laminated timber is utilized for its insulation properties and low environmental impact, while local basalt serves as cladding, reinforcing geographical ties to the Icelandic landscape. Large glazing areas are incorporated to enhance natural light and offer uninterrupted views, without compromising energy efficiency. Furthermore, the design includes provisions for geothermal energy solutions and potential solar PV systems, aligning with Iceland’s goals for renewable energy use. This thoughtful material approach underlines the commitment to crafting a structure that minimizes ecological disruption while maximizing user experience.

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

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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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