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Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Views in a Geothermal Spa Retreat

Authors:
Viktoriia Prydorozhna, Oleksandr Polikrovskyi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Views in a Geothermal Spa Retreat

Project in-detail

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

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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

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