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Curved Surfaces of Charred Wood and Glass Embrace Geothermal Wellness

Curved Surfaces of Charred Wood and Glass Embrace Geothermal Wellness
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Curved surfaces of charred wood and expansive glass invite visitors to experience geothermal wellness in a setting that harmonizes with the natural landscape of Myvatn Lake.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved surfaces of charred wood create a natural aesthetic that blends with the landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes space while enhancing thermal efficiency.
04
Geothermal energy systems power the spa's heating and water features.
05
Panoramic outdoor terraces allow for direct engagement with the surrounding environment.

## Project Overview

The Myvatn Beer Spa is located near Myvatn Lake in Iceland, an area distinguished by its geothermal activity and scenic landscapes. The intent of the design is to create a recreational facility that integrates with the natural environment while offering a unique experience for both locals and visitors. The architectural approach focuses on enhancing relaxation and interaction with the landscape, aiming to reflect the region's distinctive characteristics.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The design features a multi-level layout that supports various activities. The ground floor includes a brewery, a café snack bar, and changing facilities, effectively incorporating a central theme around beer. The first floor features additional lounging areas and beer bath facilities, designed to replicate the natural irregularities of the surrounding terrain. Finally, the second floor offers expansive terraces that provide panoramic views of Myvatn Lake, promoting engagement with the outdoors while enhancing the overall visitor experience.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

Materiality plays a critical role in the architectural narrative of the Myvatn Beer Spa. The building utilizes glass extensively in its façade, allowing natural light to permeate the space and providing unobstructed views of the landscape. Concrete elements ensure durability against Iceland's climate, while wood adds warmth to the interior atmosphere. Steel is employed for its structural integrity, allowing for an aesthetic that favors minimalism and visual clarity. This carefully selected palette not only resonates with contemporary design but also reinforces sustainable building practices, fostering a tangible connection to the surrounding nature.

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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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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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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