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Curvilinear Structure Wrapped in High-Pressure Laminate and Granite Amidst Volcanic Landscapes for Relaxation and Craft Brewing

Curvilinear Structure Wrapped in High-Pressure Laminate and Granite Amidst Volcanic Landscapes for Relaxation and Craft Brewing
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Wrap-around beer baths constructed from durable high-pressure laminate and integrated into a curvilinear timber and granite structure create an immersive wellness experience that connects visitors to the surrounding Icelandic landscape through craft brewing and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Beer baths are integrated with panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Curvilinear design allows for seamless indoor-outdoor transitions throughout the facility.
03
High-pressure laminate panels provide durability while mimicking natural textures.
04
Timber elements include locally sourced materials that enhance sustainability.
05
A central courtyard floods the spa with natural light, promoting a serene atmosphere.

## Architectural Analysis Report: Iceland Beer Spa

### Overview

Located in the volcanic landscape of the Stuttsdag Craters in Iceland, the Iceland Beer Spa project integrates innovative architectural design with its striking natural environment. The intent of the project is to foster exploration and engagement with the geological features of the area while providing a unique spa experience. The architectural scheme promotes a sense of adventure by drawing visitors through a carefully curated spatial journey that reflects the region’s rugged beauty.

### Building Form and User Interaction

The structure features a double-volume design that enhances spaciousness and creates visual openness throughout the facility. A curvilinear layout facilitates movement and interaction among different spaces, with panoramic viewing areas that connect visitors to the surrounding wilderness. The brewery display serves as a central feature, providing visibility from multiple vantage points to engage guests with the brewing process.

Individual and group bathing areas are strategically positioned to balance privacy with communal experiences, while reception, lounge, and retail areas are arranged to encourage socialization. Additionally, the design prioritizes intuitive access to treatment rooms and changing facilities, promoting a seamless user experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials reflects a commitment to harmonizing with the natural landscape while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the spa. High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) offers durability, while extensive use of glass maximizes natural light and visual connections to the outdoors. Timber is incorporated throughout the interior to evoke warmth and comfort, characteristic of spa environments.

Structural elements utilize aluminum to introduce modernity, contrasting with organic materials such as natural stone and granite that reinforce the connection to Iceland’s geological heritage. Notably, the oval enclosure housing the beer baths optimizes acoustics and promotes an intimate atmosphere, alongside a centrally located courtyard that invites natural light into the facility. The spiral staircase elegantly links different levels, while outdoor terraces provide further engagement with the breathtaking surroundings.

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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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