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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façade Enveloping a Geothermal Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Paul Bo Peng, Paul Bo Peng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façade Enveloping a Geothermal Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Enveloped in a façade of glass and charred wooden shingles, this geothermal wellness retreat harmonizes with its volcanic surroundings while offering visitors a unique spa experience rooted in local brewing traditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Enveloping the structure, the charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
The bent A-frame design enhances structural stability while maximizing natural light entry.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to sustainability and a reduced carbon footprint.
04
Geothermal heating systems efficiently warm the spa facilities, utilizing local energy resources.
05
The layout encourages communal interactions, integrating spaces for brewing education and local culture.

## Overview

Situated in the Mývatn region of Iceland, the Luminous Crater is designed to integrate harmoniously with its natural surroundings while creating a distinctive beer spa experience. The project aims to celebrate local culture and enhance sustainable tourism by drawing inspiration from the region's unique geological formations, particularly the Skútustaðagígar craters. The intent is to establish a cultural landmark that provides an engaging and immersive experience for visitors.

## Design Methodology

### Architectural Form

The design reflects the undulating shapes of volcanic craters, featuring sweeping curves that resonate with the landscape's contours. An accessible roof deck and designated pathways connect various experiential areas, including spaces for beer tasting, relaxation, and engagement with the outdoors. The interior layout is structured across multiple levels: a basement accommodating brewing facilities, a ground floor with lounges and a spa for comfort, and a roof level that offers an outdoor spa and observation deck, facilitating a comprehensive visitor experience.

### Material Selection

A deliberate choice of materials plays a significant role in defining the building's aesthetic and functional character. Extensive use of glass in the exterior façade maximizes natural light and provides expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Interior spaces utilize wood for warmth and sensory appeal, while metallic surfaces reflect light, creating dynamic visual effects. Concrete elements ensure structural stability suitable for the region's challenging climate, complementing the overall design intent.

## Sustainability and Cultural Engagement

### Environmental Considerations

The Luminous Crater incorporates renewable energy sources and efficient water management systems, aligning with modern sustainability practices. By utilizing local materials and resources, the design seeks to minimize ecological impact while fostering a connection to the region's natural environment.

### Community Interaction

Functioning as a hub for cultural exchange, the facility promotes the Icelandic tradition of brewing and serves as a venue for community events. This aspect enriches the local tourism landscape and reinforces the project's commitment to cultural engagement, providing opportunities for both visitors and residents to gather and interact.

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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

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