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Geothermal Wellness Retreat Featuring Local Stone and Angular Forms

Geothermal Wellness Retreat Featuring Local Stone and Angular Forms
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Crafted from local stone and infused with geothermal energy, the retreat seamlessly integrates angular forms with natural elements to provide a unique brewery and wellness experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a roof garden that provides an ecological transition from indoor to outdoor spaces.
02
The facility utilizes geothermal energy for heating and hot water, aligning with sustainable practices.
03
Interior spaces feature large glass facades to maximize natural light and landscape views.
04
Local stone is prominently used in construction, enhancing context and connection to the site.
05
Community-oriented spaces encourage social interactions among visitors, emphasizing communal experiences.

## Overview

Located in Iceland, the project is designed as a multi-functional center comprising a brewery and a beer spa, situated near Lake Mývatn amidst the region's distinct geological formations. The design aims to create a facility that not only accommodates visitors but also respects the surrounding environment and integrates aspects of local culture.

## Spatial Configuration

The architecture features a dynamic, angular form with multiple peaks, reflecting the rugged topography of the Icelandic landscape. The interior layout is thoughtfully arranged into specific zones that enhance user experience, including areas for brewing, tasting, and relaxation. A roof garden further blends indoor and outdoor environments, promoting a natural flow throughout the facility. Large glass facades facilitate natural light while providing panoramic views of the striking surroundings, encouraging exploration of the space.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The project utilizes a carefully curated palette of materials that resonate with the surrounding ecology. Concrete is employed for its durability and thermal mass, while expansive glass elements create a transparent connection to the landscape. Steel is used for structural integrity, combining modern aesthetics with resiliency. Locally sourced natural stone reinforces regional character, and warm wooden finishes in interior spaces contribute to a cozy ambiance. The overall design incorporates strategies for natural lighting and thermal efficiency, emphasizing sustainability throughout the building’s operational lifespan. The innovative use of local resources within the beer spa exemplifies this commitment while enhancing the wellness experience for visitors.

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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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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