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Circular Spa Structure with Timber Grid and Natural Light Integration

Author:
Neli Tsoneva
Circular Spa Structure with Timber Grid and Natural Light Integration

Project in-detail

Crafted from a distinctive timber grid and encircled by expansive glass facades, the structure creates a seamless connection with the natural landscape while serving as a multifunctional space for wellness and brewing experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with a timber grid system, the structure provides both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
02
The circular layout promotes natural circulation and maximizes views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Incorporation of large glass facades ensures optimal daylight while creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
04
A dedicated beer spa offers unique wellness features, combining relaxation with a local brewing culture.
05
Use of recycled wood in interior finishes supports sustainability and enhances the building's ecological footprint.

## Overview

Located near Lake Mývatn in Iceland, The Brewing Pavilion is an architectural endeavor that integrates functional spaces with the surrounding landscape while engaging with the local cultural narrative centered on brewing. The design employs a conceptual framework that responds to the unique geographical context, utilizing circular forms to reflect the area's natural crater formations. The intent is to create a facility that enhances leisure while fostering connections between users and the environment.

## Spatial Strategy

The spatial organization of The Brewing Pavilion is meticulously planned to accommodate various activities through distinct functional zones. It features a reception area that directs visitors to interconnected spaces, including a souvenir shop for local crafts, a beer spa with individual and shared hot tubs, and a two-level bar area that encourages interaction and socialization. The pavilion’s layout supports both individual and group experiences, with intimate areas for relaxation and communal spaces for gathering, ultimately promoting a dynamic visitor experience.

## Material Characteristics

The structural framework is primarily constructed with round wooden beams, emphasizing sustainability and aesthetic harmony with the environment. Large glass windows facilitate natural light penetration and views of the surrounding landscape, effectively blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. The use of partial wood slats not only enhances visual interest but also provides shading, further contributing to the pavilion’s connection with the nearby forested areas. The incorporation of recycled wood for wall treatments and furniture underscores a commitment to sustainable practices within the design.

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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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