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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Create a Sustainable Brewing Experience in Northern Iceland

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Create a Sustainable Brewing Experience in Northern Iceland
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glazing, the design maximizes natural light while showcasing the brewing process, creating a unique beer spa experience that integrates seamlessly with the rugged landscape of Northern Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and aesthetic warmth.
03
Features a central void that allows daylight to permeate deep into the interior.
04
Offers an open brewery layout that enables visitors to observe the brewing process directly.
05
Integrates sustainable design strategies aligned with the natural landscape of Northern Iceland.

## Project Overview

BrewVista, situated in Northern Iceland adjacent to Sel Hótel Mývatn, merges a brewery with a beer spa, offering visitors a comprehensive recreational experience. The design emphasizes sustainability and community interaction, encouraging guests to engage with the brewing process firsthand while enjoying the natural landscape.

## Spatial Configuration

### **Layout and Connectivity**
The spatial arrangement is designed to integrate smoothly with the surrounding environment, featuring interconnected areas that foster a welcoming atmosphere. The first floor consists of public spaces, including a beer-tasting bar, café, and souvenir shop, all of which promote visitor engagement. A central void space ensures ample natural light reaches deeper into the building, enhancing transparency and openness across the interiors.

### **Functional Zones**
The first floor serves as a communal hub, with spaces dedicated to relaxation and social interaction. Key features include:
- **Cafe Snack Bar**: A casual venue for refreshments.
- **Beer Tasting Bar**: An area for patrons to sample various local brews.
- **Souvenir Shop**: Showcasing crafts and memorabilia from the region.
- **Lounge Areas and Restrooms**: Additional facilities to enhance visitor comfort.

The second floor provides a more private experience, containing treatment rooms and private beer spas, complemented by an accessible lounge that allows visitors to observe the brewing activities below. The design incorporates skylights and folding windows to optimize natural light and offer views of the surrounding landscape.

## Materiality and Sustainability

BrewVista's choice of materials reflects both its local context and functional requirements. The use of wood cladding imparts warmth and durability, while concrete serves as a foundational element that conveys permanence. Large glass windows facilitate unobstructed views and promote natural lighting, while steel elements enhance the hygiene and functionality of brewing spaces.

The architectural design emphasizes sustainability through strategic orientation, maximizing natural light to decrease reliance on artificial lighting and heating. Rainwater drainage systems are integrated into the design, demonstrating an intent to harmonize with the surrounding environment and promote eco-conscious practices.

## Visitor Experience and Architectural Character

The emphasis on open spaces provides opportunities for both communal interaction and private relaxation, achieving a balance that enhances the visitor experience. The visibility of brewing processes creates a sensory-rich environment, fostering an appreciation for the craft.

The project stands out for its dual purpose as both a recreational venue and an operational brewery. Its focus on transparency, achieved through expansive glass walls and the central void, invites visitor engagement with the brewing process. Located in Northern Iceland, BrewVista’s design resonates with the region's natural topography, establishing a visual and experiential connection between the architecture and its exquisite surroundings.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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