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Natural Stone Integration with Reclaimed Wood in a Sustainable Crater Retreat

Natural Stone Integration with Reclaimed Wood in a Sustainable Crater Retreat
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Set within a volcanic crater, the design utilizes compacted soil and reclaimed wood to create a sustainable retreat that harmonizes with the landscape while offering spaces for craft brewing and wellness activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Set within a volcanic crater to minimize its visual impact.
02
Utilizes compacted soil as a primary structural element.
03
Features large skylights for natural light while maintaining thermal efficiency.
04
Employs locally sourced materials, including native stone and reclaimed wood.
05
Incorporates flexible spaces designed for both communal and private experiences.

### Overview
Located in Iceland's volcanic landscapes, Brewcrate Retreat is an architectural initiative that merges beer crafting with wellness activities. Situated within a volcanic crater, the structure is designed to integrate with the natural environment, thereby fostering a harmonious relationship between human activity and the surrounding geology. The retreat serves as a versatile space intended to facilitate social interaction and relaxation while considering long-term human engagement with the landscape.

### Material Strategy
The building employs a diverse range of materials that reflect local resources and prioritize sustainability. Key components include reclaimed wood for interior elements, compacted soil forming part of the corbelled structure, and native Icelandic stones, enhancing regional authenticity. Other materials, such as rubber for thermal insulation and concrete for structural support, ensure durability. Bronze is applied to reflective surfaces that interact dynamically with natural light, reinforcing the project’s commitment to eco-friendly practices and a connection to the volcanic landscape.

### Spatial Configuration
The architectural form of Brewcrate Retreat features fluid shapes that echo the surrounding terrain. The exterior presents a monolithic appearance, partially embedded in the earth to minimize visual impact. Internally, a striking wooden staircase facilitates circulation and adds spatial complexity, while large skylights and glass prisms allow natural light to permeate the interior, creating an evolving interplay of light and shadow. Functionally, the retreat encompasses spaces for relaxation, spa treatments, and brewery operations, designed to accommodate both communal gatherings and private retreats, thereby addressing a wide array of user needs.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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