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Rock Tub and Wood Accents in a Geothermal Retreat

Author:
Jasmine m. Baker
Rock Tub and Wood Accents in a Geothermal Retreat

Project in-detail

The integration of a rock tub and extensive wood accents defines a retreat that harmonizes with Iceland’s geothermal landscape, offering a unique guest experience focused on relaxation and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curtain walls optimize natural light while showcasing views of the surrounding landscape.
02
The rock tub offers a thermal bathing experience inspired by Iceland’s geothermal pools.
03
Extensive use of wood creates a warm atmosphere and connects the interior with nature.
04
Social areas are designed for easy flow, encouraging interaction among guests.
05
ADA compliance ensures accessibility throughout the entire guest house.

The Iceland Thermal Springs Guest House is located in the picturesque landscapes of Iceland, a region known for its unique geology and natural beauty. This guest house is designed as a luxurious retreat, emphasizing comfort and accessibility for those seeking relaxation. The overall design concept revolves around integrating the retreat with its surroundings, utilizing the area's geothermal characteristics to enhance the guest experience.

Curtain Wall Integration

The design features curtain walls that provide extensive views of the landscape. This use of glass creates a strong connection between the interior spaces and the outdoors. Natural light floods the guest house, making the interior feel open and inviting. With this design choice, occupants can enjoy the beautiful scenery while still having private living areas.

Natural Elements and Materials

A key feature of the guest house is the rock "hot springs" tub, which serves as a central element in the bathroom. Inspired by natural geothermal pools, this tub offers guests a unique way to unwind. Additionally, wood is used throughout the building, lending warmth to the spaces and connecting them to the local architectural style. This choice also promotes sustainable design principles.

Social Spaces and Layout

The layout includes several social areas, such as a pool bar and comfortable sitting areas, which encourage guests to interact. These spaces are designed to flow into each other, making it easy for people to gather and socialize. The kitchen and fireplace are thoughtfully placed, serving both practical and social needs, further enhancing the supportive atmosphere of the guest house.

Accessibility Features

The design takes into account the importance of accessibility. Features are included to ensure compliance with ADA standards, allowing all guests to enjoy the facilities fully. This commitment highlights a focus on inclusivity, making the retreat approachable and welcoming for everyone.

The overall design brings together indoor and outdoor experiences, creating an environment where guests can relax and connect with nature. Every element contributes to a sense of calm and comfort, ensuring a satisfying retreat experience.

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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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