Katharine Bartsch, 
Built using rammed earth and charred timber, the spa integrates local brewing practices with its circular design, offering therapeutic experiences in a breathtaking volcanic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced rammed earth for thermal mass and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred timber cladding for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a circular layout that promotes natural flow and interaction among spaces.
04
Includes an on-site brewery educating visitors about traditional brewing methods.
05
Offers expansive views of the surrounding Skútustaðagígur Pseudo Craters through large windows.
The Mývatn Beer Baths project, located in the Mývatn region of Iceland, integrates wellness and local brewing traditions through architectural design. This facility functions as a beer spa, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in therapeutic baths infused with beer ingredients. The architecture reflects the surrounding environment, creating a natural synergy between the building and the landscape.
The design concept is rooted in the brewing process, capturing the essence of barley grains and their organic forms. The building features a distinctive circular layout that facilitates movement and interaction. This structural organization is crucial in promoting user engagement while also enhancing the aesthetic quality of the space. The integration of large glass windows blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior environments, inviting natural light and offering expansive views of the nearby volcanic craters and lake.
Sustainability is emphasized throughout the design. The selection of materials, including locally sourced birch timber, rammed earth, and granite, reflects a commitment to ecological responsibility. These materials not only contribute to the aesthetic but also support energy efficiency and durability. The structure employs passive heating and cooling strategies, allowing it to adapt effectively to the dynamic Icelandic climate.
Crafted spaces within the project include the beer spa, treatment rooms, and a communal café area. Each component is designed with user experience in mind, ensuring comfort and accessibility. Visitors can enjoy individual wellness therapies, socialize in shared spaces, or engage with the on-site brewery, which educates guests about the brewing process.
The Mývatn Beer Baths project stands out not only for its integration of local culture and wellness but also for its architectural response to the landscape. The overall design emphasizes harmony with nature, enhanced by the use of natural materials and thoughtful spatial organization.
To gain further insights into the Mývatn Beer Baths, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its architectural ideas and execution.
The design concept is rooted in the brewing process, capturing the essence of barley grains and their organic forms. The building features a distinctive circular layout that facilitates movement and interaction. This structural organization is crucial in promoting user engagement while also enhancing the aesthetic quality of the space. The integration of large glass windows blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior environments, inviting natural light and offering expansive views of the nearby volcanic craters and lake.
Sustainability is emphasized throughout the design. The selection of materials, including locally sourced birch timber, rammed earth, and granite, reflects a commitment to ecological responsibility. These materials not only contribute to the aesthetic but also support energy efficiency and durability. The structure employs passive heating and cooling strategies, allowing it to adapt effectively to the dynamic Icelandic climate.
Crafted spaces within the project include the beer spa, treatment rooms, and a communal café area. Each component is designed with user experience in mind, ensuring comfort and accessibility. Visitors can enjoy individual wellness therapies, socialize in shared spaces, or engage with the on-site brewery, which educates guests about the brewing process.
The Mývatn Beer Baths project stands out not only for its integration of local culture and wellness but also for its architectural response to the landscape. The overall design emphasizes harmony with nature, enhanced by the use of natural materials and thoughtful spatial organization.
To gain further insights into the Mývatn Beer Baths, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its architectural ideas and execution.
