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Charred Timber Cladding and Curved Roofs Harmonize Wellness Spaces in a Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Katharine Bartsch, Andreas Gdodakis
Charred Timber Cladding and Curved Roofs Harmonize Wellness Spaces in a Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

With its charred timber cladding and curved roofs that reflect the surrounding volcanic landscape, the facility offers a distinctive wellness experience that integrates natural materials with a commitment to relaxation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while reflecting traditional Icelandic construction methods.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability and thermal insulation, tailored for local climate conditions.
03
A bent A-frame design facilitates natural light penetration and creates dynamic interior spaces.
04
The layout promotes visitor engagement by connecting spa, café, and brewery areas for a cohesive experience.
05
Geothermal heating systems are integrated to utilize local resources and enhance energy efficiency.

### Project Overview

The Sculptural Terrace is an architectural proposal for a boutique beer spa facility located near the distinctive volcanic formations of the Skútustaðagígar craters in Iceland. The design aims to create an immersive visitor experience that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, balancing functionality with a strong connection to the natural environment.

### Spatial Organization

The layout is meticulously arranged along a circulatory axis, leading visitors through the entrance, café, souvenir shop, and spa facilities. This configuration not only enhances accessibility but also creates a fusion of experiential and functional areas. The design leverages the natural geological features of the region, incorporating forms that reflect the local topography. The interior spaces are delineated into specific areas—such as the café, which acts as a social hub adorned with expansive glazing for interaction, and the microbrewery, which embraces local artisanal culture.

### Materiality and Sustainability

A carefully considered material palette enhances the facility’s integration with its environment. Burnt timber cladding, reflecting traditional Icelandic construction techniques, ensures durability while providing a tactile quality. Polished concrete offers a modern, smooth finish, while stained timber paneling adds warmth to relaxation areas. Bronze finishes accent specific architectural elements, infusing the design with elegance and historical resonance. Sustainability informs the design through the choice of materials that echo local practices, ensuring alignment with contemporary architectural principles while promoting cultural continuity.

Natural light and fresh air circulation are integral to the spa's therapeutic spaces, creating a rejuvenating atmosphere that fosters a connection to the landscape. This thoughtful integration of design elements acknowledges and respects both the cultural heritage of Iceland and the modern sensibilities of contemporary architecture.

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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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