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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.

The architectural design project is a brewery and spa complex situated in Iceland, specifically designed to complement the local landscape while promoting wellness and leisure. The project integrates seamlessly with the natural environment, utilizing natural resources and views to enhance the user experience. The design encompasses various functions, including brewing facilities, a spa area, and communal spaces such as a café, all organized to encourage relaxation and social interaction.

The layout of the project features a series of interconnected spaces that emphasize pedestrian pathways and accessibility. The design is inspired by traditional Icelandic farm buildings, which informs the arrangement and form of the structures. Steeply pitched roofs facilitate snow runoff and integrate with the local architectural vernacular. Large glass elements provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while maintaining energy efficiency.

The project prioritizes sustainable practices through its material choices and environmental considerations. Cross-laminated timber serves as the primary structural material, offering insulation and reducing environmental impact. Local basalt cladding reflects the geological context, creating a strong connection between the built environment and Iceland's unique topography.

Unique Design Approaches

A distinctive aspect of this project is its focus on integrating natural elements within the architectural design. The extensive use of glazing not only improves visual connectivity with the outdoors but also allows ample natural light, creating a welcoming environment. The careful placement of outdoor terraces alongside the spa areas enhances this connection, providing users with opportunities to engage directly with nature during their visit.

Seasonal adaptability is another critical feature of the design, ensuring functionality and comfort throughout the year. The layout accommodates varying weather conditions, promoting various activities regardless of the season. This approach enhances user experience, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits.

Environmental sustainability informs many aspects of the project, including the use of geothermal energy for heating and potentially integrating solar photovoltaic systems. These systems align with Iceland's commitment to renewable energy and serve to minimize the carbon footprint of the complex.

Functional Zones and Details

The project is divided into distinct functional zones, each purposefully designed for its specific role. The brew house is strategically placed to facilitate production with appropriate access to storage and distribution areas. The spa section caters to relaxation, featuring various treatment rooms, saunas, and thermal baths, all oriented towards maximizing views of the landscape. Communal spaces, including the café, are designed to foster interaction among visitors, promoting a sense of community within a serene setting.

The attention to detail in the material selection further enhances the architecture's coherence with its surroundings. The use of local resources not only supports sustainability but also enriches the sensory experience of the space. Textures and colors chosen for interior finishes reflect those of the natural environment, bridging the gap between the outside and inside.

This project offers a comprehensive exploration of architecture that merges functionality with respect for the natural landscape. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind this brewery and spa complex, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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