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Geothermal Spa Featuring Bronze Accents and Natural Stone Elements Within an Immersive Landscape

Geothermal Spa Featuring Bronze Accents and Natural Stone Elements Within an Immersive Landscape
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Incorporating geothermal energy and bronze accents, the design utilizes natural stone to create a spa experience that seamlessly connects with the surrounding landscape and emphasizes the craft of brewing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a plunge pool that utilizes geothermal energy for heating.
02
Constructed with bronze detailing that reflects traditional brewing heritage.
03
Features large glass panels to enhance views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Incorporates terraced outdoor areas to promote engagement with nature.
05
Design abstractly interprets brewery ingredients through spatial organization.

### Project Overview
The Mývatn Beer Spa is located near Lake Stakhólstjörn and the Skútustaðagígar craters in Iceland, where it integrates the themes of brewing, relaxation, and natural landscape. The design responds to local climatic conditions while incorporating traditional brewing processes into a modern spa environment, creating an engaging experience for visitors.

### Spatial Organization
The facility spans multiple levels, each tailored to enhance visitor interaction with the brewing process and the surrounding landscape. The ground level includes a reception area and bar with extensive glazing that fosters transparency into the brewing operations. Adjacent spaces, such as the café and gift shop, are strategically positioned to offer scenic views.

Upper levels are dedicated to a tasting bar and beer bath, providing panoramic views that promote communal relaxation. Treatment rooms are located near the main spa to facilitate a holistic wellness experience. Outdoor terraces extend the interior atmosphere, encouraging social interaction and connection with the natural surroundings.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Material selections reflect the site's natural environment and contribute to an immersive sensory experience. Natural stone is prominently featured in the plunge pool and bar area, establishing a connection to the earth. Bronze and copper accents signify the brewing tradition, while extensive glass use enhances natural light and visual connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Sustainability is prioritized through geothermal heating and cooling systems, as well as photovoltaic elements that bolster energy efficiency. Integrated green spaces and terraces extend the aesthetic of the building into the landscape, harmonizing structure with environment without overpowering its natural beauty.

### Contextual Considerations
Sensitively responding to the geography, the building's stepped design respects existing topography while maximizing views of the lake and craters. Orientation and form are informed by sun path analysis, optimizing sunlight access year-round. The vertical bronze tower serves both functional and visual purposes, acting as a landmark that guides visitors through the landscape.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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