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Basalt Facade and Geothermal Features in An Icelandic Wellness Retreat

Author:
Roberto Anthony Nasr
Basalt Facade and Geothermal Features in An Icelandic Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

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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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Chair
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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