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 Panoramic Views in a Geothermal Spa Retreat

Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Views in a Geothermal Spa Retreat
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass panels, the design captures the essence of the Icelandic landscape while offering a unique geothermal spa experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic alignment with the volcanic landscape.
02
Features extensive glass panels that maximize natural light and provide uninterrupted views of Mývatn Lake.
03
Incorporates a central courtyard designed to mimic a volcanic crater, fostering social interaction among guests.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for sustainable construction and efficient thermal performance.
05
Integrates geothermal heating systems sourced from the surrounding natural landscape.

### Overview
Located in the Mývatn region of Iceland, the Volcano Beer Spa merges traditional Icelandic building practices with contemporary design to serve as both a spa and a brewery. The intent of the project is to create a recreational facility that resonates with the local culture and natural landscape. The structure thoughtfully integrates its surroundings while providing a functional space for relaxation and social interaction.

### Spatial Organization
The design features a well-defined spatial strategy that categorizes the building into public and private zones. The public area encompasses the brewery, café, and souvenir shop, designed to foster community engagement. In contrast, the private spa area contains massage rooms, beer baths, and relaxation spaces, ensuring tranquility for visitors. Rounded corners throughout the design enhance the visual softness and contribute to a welcoming environment.

### Material Selection
The selection of materials demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and local context. The predominant use of wood in the roofing aligns with traditional aesthetics while offering insulation. Extensive glass installations facilitate natural light penetration and provide expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Ground-level construction utilizes locally sourced stone for durability, and concrete serves as a robust foundation, addressing the region's climatic challenges.

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

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

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 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

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 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

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