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Cor-Ten Facade and Geothermal Wellness Retreat in Iceland

Authors:
Davina Bonino, Leandro Copello, Gustavo Barrirero
Cor-Ten Facade and Geothermal Wellness Retreat in Iceland

Project in-detail

Crafted with a Cor-Ten facade and designed for geothermal heating, the wellness retreat in Iceland combines sustainable practices with an immersive thermal spring experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with a Cor-Ten facade that blends with the surroundings.
02
Incorporates geothermal heating for energy efficiency.
03
Features distinct public and private thermal spring pools.
04
Designed with top-hung windows for optimal natural ventilation.
05
Anti-seismic structure enables safety in a geological hotspot.

The Iceland Thermal Springs Guest House sits in a unique landscape that utilizes the region’s geothermal resources. It serves as a wellness retreat, connecting visitors to the natural surroundings while providing spaces for both communal interaction and private relaxation. The design thoughtfully separates public areas from those meant for private use, creating distinct experiences that cater to diverse guest needs. The inclusion of thermal springs as central features emphasizes the cultural significance of these natural resources in Iceland.

Architectural Integrity

The project features an anti-seismic structure, which is essential for safety in an area that is susceptible to earthquakes. This design choice ensures that the building remains stable and secure, allowing for expansive interior spaces. The layout promotes easy movement throughout the guest house while maintaining a sense of openness and connectivity.

Sustainability Measures

Geothermal heating and cooling systems are key elements of the design, efficiently harnessing local energy sources to reduce environmental impact. The use of solar energy also contributes to energy savings and supports sustainable practices in construction. This focus on energy efficiency is not only a practical choice but also reflects a growing awareness of ecological responsibilities.

Material Selection

Selected materials play a significant role in the overall design. Ridge wood boards, panels from Ruukki Forma Lamella Cor-Ten 30, and multi-laminated wood beams have been chosen for their strength and aesthetic qualities. Reinforced concrete is employed in the foundation and slabs, providing stability while accommodating large windows that allow natural light to fill the space.

The design further incorporates top-hung roof windows, enhancing ventilation and letting in ample daylight. This feature contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere, encouraging guests to enjoy both the building and the beauty of the landscape around it.

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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
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