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Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Views in a Geothermal Spa Retreat

Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Views in a Geothermal Spa Retreat
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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.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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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