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Basalt Facade and Recycled Timber Enhance Thermal Spa Experience in Iceland's Unique Landscape

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Basalt Facade and Recycled Timber Enhance Thermal Spa Experience in Iceland's Unique Landscape
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Crafted from local basalt and recycled timber, the spa utilizes thermal waters in a design that seamlessly integrates with Iceland's volcanic landscape, offering a unique wellness experience rooted in the region's cultural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from local basalt to reflect the region’s geological heritage.
02
Utilizes recycled timber panels sourced from nearby forests for sustainability.
03
Features a rooftop garden that offers panoramic views of the landscape.
04
Incorporates thermal waters directly sourced from the volcanic site.
05
Designed with communal spaces that enhance visitor interaction and community feeling.

### Project Overview
The Mývatn Beer Spa is located in the scenic region of Mývatn, Iceland. This facility integrates elements of local culture and sustainable design, highlighting a commitment to wellness through the unique lens of the local brewing tradition. Its architectural intent is to foster a tranquil environment that connects users with the natural beauty surrounding the spa.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The layout of the spa supports diverse experiences across multiple levels. The ground floor is dedicated to a brewery and café, allowing visitors to enjoy locally brewed beer before engaging in restorative treatments. The second floor encompasses the main spa area alongside a relaxation lounge, both designed to provide expansive views of the sky. This arrangement prioritizes both comfort and aesthetic appeal, enhancing the user experience while encouraging a sense of community and relaxation. The rooftop garden further extends the spa experience, offering an outdoor retreat amidst the natural landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The design incorporates a variety of locally sourced materials that reflect both cultural and environmental considerations. Basalt, native to the region, serves as the primary façade material, ensuring durability while connecting the structure to the local geology. Recycled wood features prominently in the interior, representing a commitment to eco-friendly practices. Extensive glass elements flood the interior with natural light and provide visual continuity with the outdoors. The use of gabion stone enhances the building's structural integrity while integrating it seamlessly into the landscape. These material choices not only support sustainability but also deepen the connection between the spa and its environment.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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