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Brewery Overlooking Pseudo-Craters Featuring Natural Stone and Glass Facade

Authors:
Zhuang Feiyun, Yian Shi, Chuwen Zhong, Pinyan Liu
Brewery Overlooking Pseudo-Craters Featuring Natural Stone and Glass Facade

Project in-detail

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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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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