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Octagonal Sanctuary Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles in Icelandic Landscape

Author:
Sechang Oh
Octagonal Sanctuary Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles in Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

An octagonal structure constructed with cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, seamlessly integrates into the Icelandic landscape, offering a unique thermal spa experience that enhances community engagement and appreciation for local brewing traditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
An octagonal footprint enhances spatial flow and visual connectivity with the surrounding landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber construction promotes sustainability while ensuring structural integrity.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide durability and reference traditional Icelandic building techniques.
04
Thermal baths designed to optimize geothermal resources reflect regional environmental characteristics.
05
A dedicated brewery space encourages community interaction and highlights local brewing culture.

### Overview
Another Crater is situated near the Skútustaðagígar craters, south of Lake Mývatn in Iceland, amidst a landscape marked by striking volcanic formations. The architectural design is informed by the local geography, creating an interactive space that enhances the visitor experience through a thoughtful interplay of the natural and built environment. The project integrates a brewery and spa, fostering a connection between the processes of brewing and relaxation, while reinforcing cultural ties to the region's geological characteristics.

### Architectural Form and Spatial Organization
The building features a distinctive octagonal structure that enhances visual connectivity with its surroundings through large, strategically placed windows. This layout prioritizes panoramic views, inviting natural scenery into the internal spaces. The three levels of the building serve specific functions: the ground floor includes a brewery and café to support community engagement; the second floor features reception areas and a central atrium to facilitate interaction among guests; and the third floor is dedicated to the primary beer spa, designed as a luxury retreat with a terrace offering views of the northern lights.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The choice of materials reflects both aesthetic and performance considerations. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) provides structural strength while emphasizing sustainability. Interior finishes of birch plywood contribute warmth, enhancing the tactile experience within the space. Tar-coated wood shingles on the roof reference traditional Icelandic construction methods, while matte porcelain tiles are used in wet areas for functional elegance. The design maximizes natural light and ventilation, promoting energy efficiency while enhancing the ambiance of each space. Through the use of environmentally friendly materials and design strategies, the project demonstrates a commitment to sustainability that aligns with contemporary architectural standards.

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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

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