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Geothermal Spa with Thermal Plaster Cladding and Panoramic Views

Authors:
BÁlint Bata, Encsi Balázs, Péter Bihari, Bence Maklári
Geothermal Spa with Thermal Plaster Cladding and Panoramic Views

Project in-detail

Crafted with thermal plaster cladding and designed to harness geothermal energy, the facility offers panoramic views and a unique wellness experience centered around artisanal brewing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geothermal heating system utilizes natural resources from the site.
02
Extensive use of thermal plaster for insulation and aesthetic appeal.
03
Observation tower designed to enhance connectivity with surrounding nature.
04
Integration of local stone in the facade to reflect regional characteristics.
05
Craft beer brewing facilities incorporated within spa amenities for unique guest experience.

## Overview

The Beer Spa and Hotel Mývatn is situated in the picturesque landscape of Mývatn Lake, Iceland. The design aims to create a harmonious retreat that balances relaxation and cultural authenticity while integrating with its natural environment. The project incorporates various elements that enhance visitor experiences while maintaining a commitment to environmental stewardship.

### Spatial Organization

The layout is thoughtfully organized into functional zones to optimize user experience. The first floor accommodates consumer-oriented spaces, including brewing facilities, a snack bar, dining areas, and spa amenities featuring a Finnish sauna and massage rooms. The second floor includes public amenities such as an observation lounge with expansive views of the lake, event spaces, and souvenir shops, offering visitors a comprehensive and engaging experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A careful selection of materials reinforces the project's aesthetic appeal while emphasizing performance and sustainability. The primary structure utilizes reinforced concrete to provide stability and support large glass facades that enhance natural light. Insulated glass minimizes energy loss, while wood elements contribute to a warm, traditional aesthetic. Thermal plaster cladding serves as both insulation and a textural complement to the surroundings, and stone facades evoke authentic Icelandic architectural character.

Sustainable features are central to the design, with the use of geothermal energy reducing reliance on conventional heating. Additionally, green roofs enhance insulation and encourage biodiversity, and water harvesting systems are integrated into the design to support environmental sustainability.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

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