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Engaging with Natural Elements Through Glulam Structures and Experiential Spaces

Engaging with Natural Elements Through Glulam Structures and Experiential Spaces
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Crafted from sustainably sourced Glulam, the structure emphasizes a direct engagement with the Icelandic landscape through its crater-inspired design, serving as a multifunctional space that includes a brewery, café, and spa.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted primarily from Glulam, the structure offers enhanced sustainability through efficient use of timber.
02
The design incorporates crater-inspired forms that echo the local volcanic landscape.
03
Unique wellness offerings include beer baths, utilizing local brewing products.
04
Multiple levels of outdoor terraces provide unobstructed views of the surrounding scenery.
05
The interactive brewery allows visitors to engage with the brewing process directly.

### Project Overview
Sel's Crater is located in Iceland and is designed as a multifunctional facility that encompasses hospitality, leisure, and utility. The structure responds to the site’s geological features, specifically the craters that characterize the landscape, influencing both its architectural form and functional arrangement. The building integrates a brewery, café, souvenir shop, and spa, alongside various terraces, creating a setting that encourages interaction with the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Strategy and User Engagement
The design emphasizes user experience through interactive spaces and social connectivity. The brewery serves as a focal point, allowing visitors to engage with the brewing process, thereby fostering a dynamic relationship between patrons and the facility. Outdoor terraces are strategically positioned to offer sweeping views of the landscape, promoting enjoyment of the natural beauty. The spatial arrangement further supports diverse activities, ensuring that areas designated for relaxation and social interaction are readily accessible and well-defined.

### Materiality and Structural Design
The building incorporates Glulam (Glued Laminated Timber) and concrete masonry, balancing modern aesthetic principles with traditional Icelandic materials. The exterior facade features decorative patterns that echo the natural formations of the area, reinforcing the connection between the structure and its environment. The spacious outdoor decks utilize reinforced glass and metal railings, ensuring visibility while maintaining safety. The thematic design elements, such as the building's silhouette reminiscent of volcanic craters, not only enhance visual appeal but also contribute to functional aspects like water drainage and temperature regulation.

### Layout Considerations
The layout efficiently organizes functional areas across multiple levels. The ground level hosts the brewery and café, offering direct access to outdoor terraces. Upper floors are dedicated to spa facilities and additional terraces, ensuring a tranquil atmosphere distinct from the social vibrancy of the main level. Essential services are housed in the basement, reflecting a strategic approach to maximize the usable space above while accommodating necessary mechanical systems.

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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.

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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