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Biophilic Retreat With Geothermal Heating and Charred Wooden Shingles

Author:
Hyosil Yang
Biophilic Retreat With Geothermal Heating and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and biophilic elements converge in a geothermal retreat designed for immersive wellness experiences, seamlessly integrating the brewing process with relaxation in the stunning Myvatn landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a unique aesthetic that blends with the landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer both structural integrity and sustainability, sourced locally.
03
The design incorporates geothermal technology, reducing energy consumption in heating.
04
Viewing platforms provide guests with direct insight into the brewing process during their visit.
05
Biophilic elements integrate natural light and indoor vegetation to promote well-being and tranquility.

### Architectural Design Report: Iceland Beer Spa

Located in the Myvatn lake area of Iceland, the Beer Spa is designed to harmonize with the natural landscape while incorporating elements of the beer brewing process. This facility aims to create a unique retreat that offers visitors a blend of relaxation and immersive experiences centered around brewing. The architectural intent is to elicit sensory engagement through carefully curated spaces that enhance the overall visitor experience.

#### Spatial Organization and Engagement

The spatial layout of the Beer Spa is strategically organized to facilitate exploration and interaction. At the center of the design is the brewery, which serves as a focal point for activity. Transparent walls and viewing platforms allow guests to observe the brewing process, effectively merging functionality with aesthetics. Key components of the layout include dedicated therapeutic areas for spa treatments, community spaces for social interaction, and platforms that not only enhance the brewing experience but also provide views of the surrounding landscape.

#### Material Selection and Environmental Harmony

Materiality is thoughtfully considered, reflecting the textures and tones of the local environment. Concrete is utilized for structural elements, offering a robust yet refined finish. Glass elements invite natural light and maintain visual connections to the outside, while timber adds warmth and comfort to interior spaces. Stone surfaces evoke the rugged characteristics of the Icelandic craters, fostering a tactile experience that resonates with the natural surroundings. This careful selection of materials aims to create visual continuity with the landscape while enhancing the sensory richness of the spa.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

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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