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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define Sustainable Spa and Brewery Integration

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define Sustainable Spa and Brewery Integration
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Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber create a distinctive aesthetic for a facility that harmonizes craft brewing with wellness offerings next to the scenic Lake Mývatn.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles are used for enhanced weather resistance and artistic texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber construction promotes sustainable building practices and efficiency.
03
The facility integrates communal spaces for social interaction within wellness and brewing areas.
04
A bent A-frame design allows for unique structural expression while optimizing natural light.
05
Strategic landscaping fosters direct views of Lake Mývatn, enhancing the visitor experience.

## Analytical Report on the Mývatn Beer + Spa Architectural Design Project

### Overview
Situated on the shores of Lake Mývatn in Iceland, the Mývatn Beer + Spa project integrates architectural design with a focus on local culture and sustainability. Designed to function as both a brewing facility and a wellness center, the project aims to create an engaging environment that enhances user experience while fostering a connection to its rich natural surroundings.

### Spatial Strategy and User Interaction
The architectural concept emphasizes the interplay between social spaces and private areas, promoting both community engagement and individual relaxation. The design features open corridors and communal areas that facilitate movement between different functional zones, including brewing rooms, relaxation areas, and spa facilities. Central to the identity of the project is the brewing area, which showcases stainless steel fermentation tanks, allowing visitors to observe the brewing process as part of their experience. The spa facilities are designed with tranquility in mind, incorporating natural materials and strategically positioned views of Lake Mývatn to enhance the wellness experience.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The building employs a diverse range of materials that reflect both aesthetic and functional considerations. The exterior showcases expansive glass curtain walls that contribute to transparency and visual connection with the environment, while natural elements such as Glulam and local timber enhance warmth and sustainability. Inside, the use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) not only improves structural performance but also aligns with eco-friendly construction practices, supporting the project’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Key strategies include sourcing materials locally to minimize transportation emissions and utilizing salvaged resources to enhance sustainability efforts. Unique features such as wood rotating louvers provide environmental control, balancing protection from harsh weather with the desire for openness and interaction with the landscape.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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