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Charred Wood And Natural Stone Create A Sustainable Spa Experience In A Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Cristina Sirbu, Bogdan Costea, Ana Sirbu, Maria-cristina Rachitan-gabrea
Charred Wood And Natural Stone Create A Sustainable Spa Experience In A Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood and local stone, this beer spa resort is designed to harmonize with the volcanic terrain of Mývatn, offering an immersive wellness experience that emphasizes sustainability and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Using charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing an earthy texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural integrity and reduce construction waste.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Geothermal heating utilizes local resources, minimizing energy consumption for spa operations.
05
The integration of local brewing ingredients into spa treatments reflects regional culture and sustainability.

### Overview
Brewscape Haven is located in Mývatn, Iceland, within a dormant volcanic crater. The facility is designed as a Beer Spa Resort that harmonizes with the unique geological context. The intent is to create a wellness retreat that incorporates elements of the local environment, emphasizing relaxation and natural therapies, particularly those leveraging Iceland's mineral-rich waters and organic brewing practices.

### Spatial Strategy and Organization
The layout features a sequence of interconnected spaces that facilitate a flow between indoor areas and the surrounding nature. Key components include a central SPA area offering wellness treatments based on local resources, a brewery and beer tasting bar that highlights local craftsmanship, and relaxation lounges designed with panoramic views to foster social interaction. Additionally, a café and souvenir space provide visitors with local delicacies and merchandise, enhancing the connection to Icelandic culture.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The materials chosen for Brewscape Haven reflect a commitment to sustainability and contextual relevance. Natural stone provides structural grounding, while wood introduces warmth to the interiors. Large glass windows maximize natural light and views, and copper accents enhance the artisanal aesthetic of the brewery. Concrete serves as a durable foundation, presenting a neutral palette that complements the dynamic surroundings. The design aims to minimize environmental impact through careful material selection and consideration of the site's natural features.

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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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