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Charred Timber Integration With Steel Accents in a Multifunctional Lakefront Spa

Authors:
Xiaoxiao Pan, Linjun Yu
Charred Timber Integration With Steel Accents in a Multifunctional Lakefront Spa

Project in-detail

Charred timber and stainless steel form a striking façade that embraces the surrounding landscape, creating a unique destination for relaxation and cultural engagement centered around brewing and wellness near Mývatn Lake.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and views of Mývatn Lake.
04
Integrates brewery facilities within a spa setting, promoting a unique wellness experience.
05
Includes interactive spaces designed to engage visitors with the brewing process.

### Project Overview

The Iceland Beer Spa is situated near Mývatn Lake, designed to engage visitors with Iceland's brewing heritage and local culture. This multifaceted establishment includes a beer brewery, exhibition space, café, snack bar, souvenir shop, and a beer spa, creating a communal environment that encourages relaxation and active participation in the beer-making process. The architectural design draws inspiration from the site’s natural beauty, enhancing the visitor experience through panoramic views and easy access to both relaxation and cultural engagement.

### Architectural Expression

**Exterior Design**: The design features a contemporary interpretation of traditional Icelandic architecture, exemplified by three double-pitched roofs that echo classic village structures. The façade employs a mix of ash-blackened pine wood and stainless steel, symbolizing the region's volcanic landscape and the raw materials involved in brewing. This material contrast not only enhances the building's aesthetic but also reinforces its connection to the local environment.

**Interior Configuration**: Inside, the layout fosters free movement and exploration, with central spaces designed to connect visitors to the brewing process. Notable features include a circular beer-tasting area and a dynamic reception zone that smoothly integrates various functional spaces, facilitating interaction among guests. The use of cast-in-place concrete for structural integrity alongside warm wood finishes creates a comfortable atmosphere, while transparent coatings on wood enhance both aesthetics and the theme of visibility in the brewing process.

### Functional Areas

Dedicated zones within the spa include a beer brewing area where visitors can observe the brewing process, promoting an educational experience. Spa facilities offer beer-infused treatments, highlighting the therapeutic properties of beer in a tranquil setting. Additionally, social spaces allow for snacking, lounging, and shopping, encouraging community interaction and enhancing the overall visitor experience. The thoughtful integration of these functions reflects a commitment to promoting Icelandic culture and hospitality.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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