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

Basalt-Clad Retreat Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Thermal Baths Surrounding Natural Landscapes
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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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