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Geothermal Wellness Retreat Featuring Volcanic Concrete and Transparent Facades

Author:
Daniel Rojas
Geothermal Wellness Retreat Featuring Volcanic Concrete and Transparent Facades

Project in-detail

Utilizing local volcanic concrete and expansive glass facades, the design creates a seamless integration with the landscape while serving as a brewery and spa that harnesses geothermal energy for wellness experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facility incorporates geothermal heating for both brewing and spa functions.
02
Large glass panels provide unobstructed views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural and aesthetic purposes.
04
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while creating a visually appealing façade.
05
The design features a bent A-frame structure that integrates with the natural terrain.

**Project Overview**
The ÖL Brewery and Spa, situated within the Sel-Hotel Mývatn in Iceland, integrates architectural design with the region's distinct volcanic landscape. Focusing on sustainability and a connection to nature, the facility serves a dual purpose as both a brewery and a wellness center, promoting relaxation and engagement with the environment.

**Architectural Form and Spatial Organization**
The structure features a sculptural, tiered design that aligns with the natural undulations of the surrounding terrain. Its layout includes terraces and ramps that facilitate movement between levels while optimizing views of the volcanic scenery. Functional zoning is clearly defined within the building: the brewery occupies the lowest level, allowing visitors to observe the brewing process; the spa, featuring thermal pools and saunas, utilizes geothermal heating; and a café at the top level offers expansive glass views, creating a serene space for relaxation.

**Material Selection and Sustainability Initiatives**
The material palette includes concrete for structural elements, glass for transparency and natural light, and natural wood for warmth and comfort in the interior. Steel provides structural support for various architectural features. Sustainability is a cornerstone of the design, employing geothermal energy and passive solar strategies to minimize energy use. Locally sourced materials further reduce the environmental footprint, reinforcing the project's commitment to ecological responsibility while enhancing the overall visitor experience.

This design strategically utilizes Iceland's unique natural resources while carefully considering the cultural context, ultimately establishing a harmonious interaction between built space and the landscape.

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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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