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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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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

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The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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