Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Bronze Facade and Wood Elements Harmonize in a Multifunctional Brewery and Spa Center

Author:
Matthew Ryan Trebra
Bronze Facade and Wood Elements Harmonize in a Multifunctional Brewery and Spa Center

Project in-detail

With a bronze facade and natural wood accents, the design integrates seamlessly with the Mývatn landscape, offering a unique brewery and spa experience that emphasizes local craftsmanship and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates locally sourced charred wooden shingles, enhancing its durability and visual connection to the landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized to minimize environmental impact while providing structural integrity.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes natural light penetration and offers expansive views of the surrounding terrain.
04
The brewery features a transparent brewing area, allowing visitors to engage with the beer-making process directly.
05
The project integrates a wellness spa, utilizing beer-infused treatments to promote health in a culturally reflective manner.
Björíhæðin is an architectural project designed as a cultural center that highlights the brewing tradition of the Mývatn region in Iceland. This facility includes a brewery, a café, and a beer spa, providing a multi-faceted experience focused on local beer culture while fostering community engagement. Set within the unique geological features of the Mývatn area, the design utilizes the surrounding topography and natural elements to create a seamless integration with the landscape.

The project reflects a commitment to sustainability through the careful selection of materials and the incorporation of energy-efficient practices. The architectural form features a stepped design that mirrors the natural pseudocraters in the vicinity, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Visitors are guided through various spaces that promote interaction with both the brewing process and the surrounding environment, resulting in a cohesive experience that connects people with Icelandic traditions.

Innovative Architectural Design

One of the defining aspects of the Björíhæðin project is its approach to integrating architecture with the natural landscape. The stepped design not only creates distinct zones within the building, but also harmonizes with the undulating terrain of the Mývatn area. This form facilitates a fluid movement through the space, providing visitors with dynamic views of the landscape from various vantage points.

The use of materials, such as galvanized metal siding and light wood framing, reflects local craftsmanship while ensuring durability against the harsh Icelandic climate. The precast concrete staircase offers practical access between levels while echoing the region's vernacular architecture. Polycarbonate skylights are strategically placed to enhance natural lighting, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere that connects the interiors with the external environment.

Functional Spaces and Community Engagement

The layout of Björíhæðin is designed to serve both functional and educational purposes. The brewery functions as the core of the building, offering visitors a glimpse into the craft of beer-making. Adjacent to this are the café and the beer spa, which provide spaces for relaxation and culinary experiences tied to local brewing traditions.

The viewing monolith adds an interactive element, allowing visitors to engage more deeply with the surrounding scenery while promoting a sense of place. This multifaceted approach not only enriches the visitor experience but also encourages community involvement through educational workshops and events focused on Icelandic brewing culture.

Explore the architectural plans and sections of Björíhæðin to gain further insights into the design details and innovative strategies employed in this project. Understanding the architectural ideas behind Björíhæðin can reveal more about how contemporary architecture can effectively integrate with local traditions and natural landscapes.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy