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Basalt Facade and Geothermal Features in an Icelandic Wellness Retreat

Basalt Facade and Geothermal Features in an Icelandic Wellness Retreat
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Constructed with a basalt facade and incorporating geothermal elements, this Icelandic retreat offers a seamless integration of natural materials and wellness spaces designed to enhance the restorative experience for its guests.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced basalt, the façade reflects the region's geological heritage.
02
Geothermal systems are integrated to efficiently heat the spa and guest rooms.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural support and aesthetic warmth.
04
Design includes a unique beer bath feature within the wellness amenities.
05
Large windows enhance natural light while framing stunning views of the Myvatn landscape.

**Bjór Spa Sel Hotel Overview**
Located in the Myvatn region of Iceland, Bjór Spa Sel Hotel is designed to reflect the area's distinctive geological features and natural beauty. The project aims to create a luxury retreat that prioritizes sustainable practices while offering guests a deep connection to the surrounding landscape. The architectural design emphasizes a synergy between indoor and outdoor experiences, achieved through the strategic placement of large windows that showcase panoramic views of the dramatic surroundings.

**Materiality and Structural Integrity**
The hotel's design harnesses locally sourced basalt as a primary material, establishing a direct link to the region's volcanic history. This choice not only enhances the building’s durability and thermal insulation but also aligns its appearance with the local geological context. Timber, a nod to traditional Icelandic construction methods, is used throughout the interior to foster a warm ambiance. Large glass panels facilitate natural lighting and blur the distinction between the indoor environment and exterior landscapes. Concrete elements provide necessary structural support while maintaining the integrity required for the building’s geothermal features.

**Spatial Organization and User Experience**
The layout of Bjór Spa Sel Hotel is meticulously organized to provide a sequence of spaces dedicated to relaxation and rejuvenation. Key areas include an open lobby that welcomes guests, spa facilities that feature thermal baths integrated with nature, and guest rooms equipped with expansive windows for optimal views while ensuring privacy. Unique amenities, such as a beer bath and pool, enhance the wellness offerings, allowing guests to engage meaningfully with Icelandic culture and the natural environment. The two-floor arrangement of the hotel promotes privacy while accommodating various spa experiences, ensuring a tranquil guest experience throughout.

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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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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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