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Charred Cedar Shingles and Geothermal Pools in a Nordic Wellness Retreat

Author:
Yanci Chen
Charred Cedar Shingles and Geothermal Pools in a Nordic Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred cedar shingles and harnessing geothermal energy, the design creates a seamless connection between Icelandic landscape and wellness, offering a unique retreat focused on relaxation and communal bathing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred cedar shingles enhance durability while echoing local volcanic landscapes.
02
Geothermal energy is harnessed to heat spa pools and support sustainability.
03
The design features cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and efficiency.
04
A bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and offers panoramic views of the surroundings.
05
Communal bathing areas encourage social interaction, rooted in Icelandic tradition.

## Mývatn Beer Spa Overview

The Mývatn Beer Spa is situated adjacent to Lake Mývatn in Iceland, an area renowned for its exceptional geological formations and cultural heritage. This facility merges Icelandic traditions of social interaction with the practice of beer brewing, creating a unique bathing and recreational atmosphere within a striking natural context. The project's intent is to enhance visitor engagement with the surrounding landscape while enriching the social fabric of the community.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The spatial organization of the Mývatn Beer Spa comprises three distinct zones, each designed to offer varied experiences. The entrance level serves as a welcoming plaza, acting as a transition space that fosters social interaction. The spa level is dedicated to relaxation, featuring hot springs and private bathing areas that enable intimate connections with nature. The brewery level highlights the brewing process, creating an environment that encourages community gatherings and cultural exchange among visitors.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

The architectural approach emphasizes the use of local materials and sustainable practices. Key components include Shou Sugi Ban shingles that reflect the appearance of volcanic formations while providing durability, and concrete that mimics the surrounding natural textures. Additionally, brass fixtures enhance the overall aesthetic while ensuring longevity, and wooden elements evoke traditional Icelandic craftsmanship. The design prioritizes ecological harmony, employing geothermal energy and efficient construction methods that align with Iceland’s dedication to sustainability. The strategic use of materials and spatial organization culminates in an environment that respects and complements the breathtaking landscape of Lake Mývatn.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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