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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.
General Description
Another Crater is an architectural project located near the Skútustaðagígar craters in Iceland, close to Lake Mývatn. This facility functions as a beer spa, integrating the brewing process with a wellness experience that reflects the surrounding volcanic landscape. The design is characterized by its octagonal shape, intended to resemble a natural crater, which effectively merges visual aesthetics with functional requirements.

The building comprises three levels, each dedicated to distinct activities. The ground floor houses a brewery and a café, supporting social interaction while promoting the brewing process. The second floor serves as a reception area and connects various programmatic elements with an atrium. The third floor is primarily focused on spa services, incorporating thermal baths and relaxation spaces with views of the northern lights.

Unique Design Approaches
One of the notable aspects of Another Crater is its emphasis on sustainability. The project utilizes cross-laminated timber for structure, which offers durability alongside ecological benefits, minimizing the overall carbon footprint. This choice is complemented by birch plywood for interior finishes, which adds warmth and texture to the spaces.

The architectural design prioritizes natural light and ventilation through expansive glazing. This strategy not only enhances the internal ambiance but also fosters energy efficiency. The orientation of the building is carefully calculated to optimize views and sunlight exposure, effectively connecting visitors with the external landscape.

In addition, traditional Icelandic materials have been incorporated, such as tar-coated wood shingles for the roofing, which pay homage to local building practices. This integration blends the architectural narrative with cultural context, reinforcing the identity of the space.

Functionality and User Experience
The architectural layout of Another Crater is meticulously crafted to enhance user experience. The ground floor’s brewery encourages engagement, allowing visitors to observe the brewing process. Its café complements the brewery, facilitating social interaction and communal enjoyment of the local brews.

The second floor, featuring an open atrium, invites natural light and air circulation, creating a welcoming atmosphere. This floor serves as a vital connective tissue between the brewing activities below and the spa experiences above.

The third floor is dedicated to relaxation, with thermal baths designed to leverage the geothermal activity characteristic of the region. The incorporation of vistas towards the northern lights adds a unique experiential dimension, making this space not just a relaxation area but also an observatory for natural phenomena.

Embark on your exploration of Another Crater by reviewing the architectural plans and sections to gain deeper insights into its design principles and spatial organization. Discover the intricate details that make this project an exemplary model of contemporary architecture in Iceland.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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