Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Walls Create a Spa Experience Rooted in Nature

Authors:
Jesse Teemu Matias Poutanen, Erik Hämeenoja, Joose Talviniitty
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Walls Create a Spa Experience Rooted in Nature

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a structure defined by expansive glass walls, blending seamlessly with the volcanic landscape of Mývatn, to create a wellness retreat that prioritizes relaxation and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance while integrating with the landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to a low environmental impact and efficient construction.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light and expansive views of the surrounding terrain.
04
Geothermal heating systems utilize the local geothermal resources for energy efficiency.
05
The layout promotes a seamless flow between indoor relaxation and outdoor scenery.

### Project Overview
Located in Mývatn, Iceland, the Beer Spa embodies a thoughtful integration of contemporary architecture and the region's distinctive geological features. The facility aims to create a luxurious retreat for visitors, reflecting a commitment to local culture and natural beauty while offering a relaxing spa experience. The architectural design employs innovative methodologies in spa and hospitality design, enhancing guest interaction with the surrounding landscape.

### Spatial Strategy
The layout of the Beer Spa is carefully organized to foster movement and engagement among guests. The entrance is situated at the northwest corner, providing a welcoming transition that offers immediate visual access to the natural environment. The spa facilities, including treatment rooms and saunas, feature expansive glass walls that encourage a blend of indoor comfort and outdoor views. Adjacent to these spaces, the cafeteria and brewery promote social interaction, showcasing local culinary offerings. An accessible rooftop area allows guests to appreciate panoramic vistas while participating in spa activities, reinforcing the connection to nature throughout the facility.

### Material Composition
The construction employs a diverse selection of materials that balance durability with aesthetic charm. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, ensuring robustness while allowing design flexibility. Wood is utilized for interior features such as ceilings and partitions, providing warmth and a sense of organic continuity. Extensive use of glass creates large openings that maximize natural light and frame views of the landscape, while stone elements draw from local geology, anchoring the design in its context. This combination of materials underscores a commitment to both functionality and visual coherence within the natural setting.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy