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Brewery Overlooking Pseudo-Craters Featuring Natural Stone and Glass Facade

Brewery Overlooking Pseudo-Craters Featuring Natural Stone and Glass Facade
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A tiered structure of natural stone and glass harmoniously integrates with the iconic pseudo-craters of Iceland, providing a unique wellness retreat that combines spa experiences with a local brewing culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure utilizes a tiered design that reflects the surrounding pseudo-craters.
02
Extensive use of glass facades enhances natural light and views of the landscape.
03
A brewery is integrated within the hotel, promoting local brewing culture.
04
Natural stone is featured prominently, connecting the building to its environment.
05
The spa experience includes unique beer bath areas for relaxation.

### Project Overview
The redesign of Ber Spa Hotel is situated in the Lake Mývatn region of Iceland, where the unique geological formation of pseudo-craters serves as a significant contextual influence. The intent of this project is to replace the existing facility with a comprehensive hub that facilitates relaxation, brewing, and social interaction, while harmonizing with the surrounding landscape.

### Spatial Configuration and Flow
A tiered structure has been implemented to reflect the natural contours of the pseudo-craters, creating distinct areas for various functions. The upper level accommodates a café, a brewing area, and a terrace that provides expansive views, fostering social engagement. The ground floor contains a souvenir shop and brewery to promote local commerce, while the lower level is dedicated to spa experiences, featuring unique beer bath areas and relaxation lounges.

Circulation within the hotel is enhanced through the integration of dual staircases, with one external for access to the upper levels and another internal for movement between spa areas. This design promotes fluid movement and transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, facilitating a cohesive user experience. The large glass façades throughout the building enhance visual connectivity with the external landscape, immersing guests in the natural beauty of the region.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Attention to material selection plays a crucial role in the project's sustainability and aesthetic cohesion. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, providing durability, while extensive use of glass optimizes natural light and offers unobstructed views of the scenic surroundings. Wood accents in flooring and interiors reflect local craftsmanship, adding warmth to the environment. Natural stone is employed in spa areas and cladding, reinforcing the connection between interior and exterior spaces.

The design also prioritizes environmental sustainability by considering local climatic conditions and incorporating passive design strategies. Energy-efficient features such as natural lighting and strategic heating contribute to the overarching commitment to ecological responsibility. The landscaping is designed to include native flora and fauna, promoting ecological continuity and enriching guests' connection to the local environment.

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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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Competition organisers

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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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