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Charred Wood and Steel Fusion in a Nordic Spa Retreat

Authors:
Katharine Bartsch, Leigha Nguyen
Charred Wood and Steel Fusion in a Nordic Spa Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and steel cladding, this Nordic retreat redefines wellness through innovative beer baths and serene communal spaces, creating a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a distinct aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to the building's structural integrity and warmth.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Beer-infused treatments are incorporated into the wellness experience.
05
The design integrates communal and private spaces for varied user interactions.

## Overview
The Algiz Beer Spa is located in Iceland, designed to harmonize wellness experiences with the region's natural landscape and cultural heritage. Named after the Norse symbol "Algiz," which represents protection, the facility aims to provide an immersive environment that focuses on relaxation and rejuvenation through beer-infused spa treatments. This analysis examines the design, materiality, spatial organization, and overall user experience.

## Spatial Organization
The design employs a thoughtful spatial strategy, incorporating three distinct forms to delineate public and private areas. The layout enhances circulation, allowing for efficient movement between communal spaces, such as the café and relaxation lounge, and private treatment rooms. This organization fosters socialization while providing quiet sanctuaries for individual wellness, ensuring a balanced experience for all guests.

## Materiality and Environmental Integration
The material palette reflects a commitment to durability and harmony with the surroundings. Steel cladding offers a contemporary and weather-resistant exterior, complemented by porcelain and ceramic tiles in wet areas for functionality. Timber cladding adds warmth and connection to nature, especially within the wellness zones. Strategically placed windows and terraces enhance the indoor-outdoor relationship, drawing guests’ focus to the therapeutic qualities of the natural environment.

Incorporating beer as a therapeutic element distinguishes the spa from traditional wellness facilities, utilizing natural ingredients like hops and yeast in treatments. This innovation, combined with a modern architectural approach that respects Icelandic heritage, positions the Algiz Beer Spa as a unique wellness destination aimed at enhancing guest experiences.

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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
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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