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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enabling a Sustainable Spa Experience

Author:
Simonee Alicia LØkke
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enabling a Sustainable Spa Experience

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a harmonious experience that blends relaxation and brewing within a sustainable spa environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and panoramic views.
04
Includes outdoor bathing areas that leverage natural wind patterns for comfort.
05
Employs local materials to strengthen community ties and minimize environmental impact.

The Iceland Beer Spa project presents an innovative architectural response to the growing demand for wellness and experiential tourism in Iceland. Situated in the northeastern region, this project integrates the principles of local craftsmanship, sustainable materiality, and environmental responsiveness. The central aim of the Iceland Beer Spa is to provide a rejuvenating experience that merges traditional beer brewing processes with contemporary spa practices, emphasizing the therapeutic aspects of Iceland's natural resources.

Functionally, the design accommodates both brewery operations and spa activities, emphasizing relaxation and health. Focused on community and ecological sustainability, the project utilizes local materials and incorporates an architectural language that complements the surrounding landscape. The facility is designed to enhance visitor engagement with nature while providing practical relaxation spaces.

Unique Design Approaches Utilizing Natural Geography

A distinctive feature of the Iceland Beer Spa is its adaptive design methodology that prioritizes site-specific responses. The project takes advantage of the prevalent wind patterns and sun exposure unique to the site, influencing the building's orientation and overall form. By deploying advanced computational design tools, the architects have created an efficient and flowing spatial arrangement that promotes seamless transitions between various functions.

The choice of materials further distinguishes the Iceland Beer Spa, with an emphasis on salvaged wood and stainless steel. These materials not only reduce the environmental impact but also connect the building to local craftsmanship and tradition. Glazed facades are employed strategically to maximize natural light, framing panoramic views of the surrounding craters while ensuring thermal efficiency and occupant comfort.

Holistic Integration of Function and Experience

The spatial configuration of the Iceland Beer Spa encourages exploration and interaction. The layout includes private bathing areas, communal spaces, and an integrated brewery, promoting social engagement alongside individual relaxation. Each space is designed with the intent to foster well-being, utilizing natural light, open layouts, and unobstructed views to create a tranquil ambiance.

The project embodies a conceptual framework that merges functionality with aesthetic simplicity. With a deliberate focus on integrating the surrounding environment through organic shapes and fluid circulation paths, the Iceland Beer Spa stands out from traditional spa designs. This architectural approach aligns with contemporary trends in wellness, merging nature with human experience in a deeply contextual manner.

For those interested in exploring the technical aspects, I encourage reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs of the Iceland Beer Spa. These details provide insights into the innovative ideas and strategies employed throughout the project, offering a deeper understanding of its architectural significance.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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