Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Geothermal Spa Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Corten Steel Infused with Local Brewing Culture

Author:
Ioanna Tzavella
Geothermal Spa Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Corten Steel Infused with Local Brewing Culture

Project in-detail

Blending cross-laminated timber and corten steel, the design creates a geothermal spa that integrates local brewing culture with wellness experiences amid the serene landscape of Lake Mývatn.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced cross-laminated timber for structural integrity and warmth.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles that enhance weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a distinctive bent A-frame design that optimizes views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Integrates an on-site brewery, promoting local craftsmanship and community engagement.
05
Strategically employs geothermal energy for heating, emphasizing sustainability and efficiency.

## Architectural Design Analysis Report: Nordic Brewscapes Spa

### Project Overview
Situated near Lake Mývatn in Iceland, the Nordic Brewscapes Spa integrates architectural design with the unique geographic features of its surroundings. The intent of the project is to create an immersive environment that merges a spa with a brewery, emphasizing the region's cultural heritage. Through careful design, the spa aims to promote relaxation while fostering an appreciation for the natural beauty of the Icelandic landscape.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The design features a diverse array of functional spaces optimized for user experience. A welcoming main entrance and reception area are designed to create an inviting atmosphere enriched by natural light and warm materials. The brewery serves as a central hub, allowing visitors to engage with the brewing process, while also providing a beer tasting bar that encourages social interaction. Wellness facilities, including treatment rooms and relaxation spaces, are designed to evoke tranquility through thoughtfully selected materials and colors. The restaurant emphasizes local cuisine, further connecting guests with the Icelandic culture.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration
A variety of materials were chosen for their durability and aesthetic compatibility with the environment. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) forms the structural framework, providing stability while imparting warmth to the interiors. Weathered corten steel is utilized for exterior applications, ensuring that the building gradually integrates with its natural surroundings. Polished concrete surfaces enhance the modernity of interior spaces, contrasting effectively with organic elements. Expansive glass windows facilitate a strong connection between indoor activities and the scenic vistas of the lake and mountains, enhancing natural light flow throughout the facility.

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