Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Design Featuring Laminated Timber and Expansive Glass Spaces in a Spa and Community Retreat

Author:
Ana Rita Rodrigues Gomes
Curvilinear Design Featuring Laminated Timber and Expansive Glass Spaces in a Spa and Community Retreat

Project in-detail

The curvilinear form, crafted from laminated timber and extensive glass, seamlessly integrates with the landscape to create a spa and community retreat focused on wellness and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates expansive glass elements to maximize natural light and views of the landscape.
02
Laminated timber construction supports the curvilinear form, enhancing structural integrity and aesthetics.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinctive weathering quality while improving durability.
04
Light wells are integrated to create dynamic interior lighting and enhance the spatial experience.
05
A unique beer tasting area is included, blending social and wellness functions within the retreat.

## Overview
"Ethereal" is a spa and social facility located in Iceland, designed to provide a unique experience that balances relaxation with community engagement. The project responds to its scenic environment, emphasizing a connection to nature while incorporating a comprehensive range of spa and recreational amenities intended for both casual visitors and dedicated guests.

## Spatial Configuration
The design employs an open floor plan across two levels, facilitating fluid movement and interaction among users. The ground floor includes essential services such as a café, spa reception, and treatment rooms, while the upper floor features relaxation areas and specialized beer tasting rooms. The inclusion of natural light via strategically placed windows enhances the ambiance, inviting a deeper connection to the outdoor landscape.

The layout is characterized by organic shapes, promoting a soft, welcoming atmosphere suitable for a spa environment. This configuration encourages social interaction in areas such as the spa lounge and communal spaces, fostering a sense of community among users. Features like light wells improve vertical connectivity and aesthetic continuity, further enriching the spatial experience.

## Material Selection
Materials have been carefully chosen to support the project's intent and environmental considerations. Laminated timber contributes warmth and softness, essential for creating a calming atmosphere. Concrete surfaces provide durability and contrast, while expansive glass windows ensure ample natural light and maintain visual links to the surroundings. Specific areas, particularly wet spaces, utilize tiles for practical hygiene, and insulation materials are incorporated to ensure thermal comfort in Iceland's variable climate.

The integration of these materials contributes to a cohesive sensory experience, balancing tranquil and invigorating elements that enhance the overall user experience. The design reflects a commitment to both functionality and aesthetic harmony with the natural context.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy