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Curvilinear Concrete Retreat with Natural Light Wells and Integrated Brewery

Curvilinear Concrete Retreat with Natural Light Wells and Integrated Brewery
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Curvilinear forms of reinforced concrete and strategically placed light wells create a seamless connection between the interior and the Myvatn landscape, culminating in a multifunctional facility that combines spa and brewery experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design mimics the natural terrain of Myvatn.
02
Large light wells optimize natural lighting throughout the interior.
03
Integrated brewery offers unique beer-infused spa treatments.
04
Material palette includes zinc for weather resistance and aesthetic value.
05
Multi-level layout enhances user interaction with communal spaces.

## Project Overview
Located in Myvatn, Iceland, the architectural design emphasizes a harmonious relationship between built form and natural surroundings while maximizing the use of natural daylight. The intent is to create a spatial experience that engages visitors through light and contour, reflecting the region's geological features. The structure’s design promotes interaction with both the architectural elements and the dramatic landscape, effectively integrating the context into the overall narrative.

## Spatial Strategy
The layout features two primary levels that cater to various functions while facilitating movement and interaction. The first floor includes a café, souvenir shop, brewing area, waiting spaces, and spa entrance, designed to foster social engagement with a focus on comfort and functionality. The second floor houses more intimate amenities, including treatment rooms and outdoor terraces, which are arranged to promote privacy while allowing communal interaction, encouraging a comprehensive spa experience that remains connected to the natural environment.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The design utilizes a carefully selected mix of materials that resonate with the local landscape and contemporary construction methods. Predominantly, reinforced concrete forms the structural basis, providing stability and visual compatibility with the rugged terrain. Interior finishes incorporate wood for warmth, while zinc panels on roofs offer durability and weather resistance against the Icelandic climate. Large glazing systems invite natural light and frame views of the surrounding landscape, ensuring an immersive connection to the outdoors. Additionally, ceramic tiles and engineered wood contribute both to the aesthetic and the functionality of the spaces, enhancing the user experience while promoting sustainable design practices.

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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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