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Charred Wood Shingles and Geothermal Features Enhance Wellness Retreat Experience

Charred Wood Shingles and Geothermal Features Enhance Wellness Retreat Experience
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Utilizing charred wood shingles and integrating geothermal springs, the design establishes a unique wellness retreat that merges local brewing traditions with therapeutic bathing experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features geothermal springs integrated into bathing areas, promoting natural thermal therapy.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design, maximizing structural strength while minimizing material use.
05
Highlights local brewing traditions through interactive exhibits within the brewery space.

Myvatn Nature Beer Spa is located in Iceland and integrates the therapeutic qualities of a spa with the cultural heritage of brewing. The design aims to establish a connection between the built environment and the unique Icelandic landscape, emphasizing "therapeutic bathing" through the incorporation of local beer production and natural geothermal springs. This dual-functionality facilitates both wellness and cultural education, allowing visitors to engage with the local traditions of beer-making while enjoying spa therapies.

### Site Organization and Elemental Design

The master plan features two main structures: a brewery and a spa, each strategically positioned within the landscape. The brewery serves as an interactive space where visitors can experience the brewing process, characterized by an open layout that encourages engagement. The spa area is designed to function as a serene retreat, incorporating beer baths and relaxation zones that blend with the natural environment. Key design elements include the brewery's educational focus and the beer bath building's integration into the topography, enhancing the visitor's immersion in nature.

### Material Usage and Environmental Considerations

Sustainability and local material sourcing are central to the architectural expression. The design employs natural wood for warmth and connection to the landscape, steel for structural integrity, and concrete for durability and aesthetic contrast. Additionally, green roofs are utilized to seamlessly integrate the structures into the surroundings while promoting insulation and fostering local biodiversity. The landscape architecture features gentle terrain variations and water elements to create a dynamic interaction between architecture and nature, ensuring minimal ecological disruption while enhancing both aesthetic appeal and recreational opportunities.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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