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 of Natural Stone and Glass Facilitates Wellness in Geothermal Landscape

Author:
Micaella Marie Gutierrez Abuan
Curvilinear Design of Natural Stone and Glass Facilitates Wellness in Geothermal Landscape

Project in-detail

Incorporating curvilinear forms and extensive use of natural stone and glass, the facility seamlessly integrates into the geothermal landscape of Myvatn, offering a dual experience of relaxation and community within a spa and brewery setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes curvilinear design elements to reflect the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Features large glass facades that enhance natural light and views throughout the facility.
03
Incorporates locally sourced stone and timber, promoting sustainability and regional identity.
04
Integrates a unique outdoor beer bathing experience utilizing geothermal resources.
05
Offers dedicated treatment rooms oriented for privacy and serene landscape views.

## Project Overview

Located in Myvatn, Iceland, the Spa and Brewery is designed to integrate with the region's notable geothermal landscape and serene lakes. Focusing on wellness and leisure, the facility combines a spa and brewery to create a unique environment conducive to relaxation and social interaction. The architectural intent is to establish a strong connection between the visitor experience and the surrounding natural environment.

## Architectural Form

The design reflects the volcanic crater landscape, with structures that embody natural contours. The layout was developed from an initial circular concept into a cohesive form that facilitates interaction between the two main buildings. These structures frame outdoor views while facilitating guest movement throughout the facility. The first building accommodates the brewery and communal bath areas, while the second building is dedicated to spa treatments and relaxation.

## Material Considerations

Material selection plays a critical role in reinforcing the project’s relationship with its environment. Natural stone is utilized for its durability and contextual relevance, while glass facades provide abundant natural light and uninterrupted views of the landscape. Wood accents are incorporated in communal areas to create a warm atmosphere. Key materials include natural stone, glass, wood, concrete, steel, and gypsum board. The commitment to using locally sourced materials contributes to environmental sustainability, alongside energy-efficient indoor climate control systems to minimize operational impact.

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