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Sculpted Concrete And Transparent Glass Harmonizing Spa Retreat In The Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Julia Elisabeth Clough, Rey Elliot Gabriel, Catherine Tumali
Sculpted Concrete And Transparent Glass Harmonizing Spa Retreat In The Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Combining sculpted concrete forms with expansive glass façades, this spa retreat integrates seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape, prioritizing wellness and community interaction through its dual function as a brewery and spa.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sculpted concrete forms mimic the natural terrain of the Icelandic landscape.
02
Extensive glass façades enhance natural light and create dynamic visual connections with the surroundings.
03
Birch wood interiors contribute to a warm atmosphere while reflecting local cultural elements.
04
The brewery component fosters community interaction, merging social space with wellness facilities.
05
Innovative use of glass blocks allows for colorful daylight effects in treatment areas.

Bjorbath is a spa and brewery complex located in Northern Iceland, designed to provide a harmonious retreat that integrates with the natural landscape surrounding Lake Myvatn. The project prioritizes wellness through design, using architecture to create spaces that foster relaxation and connection with nature. This facility serves a dual function by not only offering spa treatments but also facilitating social interaction through its brewery component.

Bjorbath's design incorporates organic forms and a fluid layout that reflects the undulating topography of the region. The building’s structure allows for optimal natural light and views, enhancing the experience for visitors. The design features multiple levels, including a ground floor that hosts the brewery, and upper levels dedicated to various spa amenities. Each level is strategically planned to separate public and private areas, promoting both communal engagement and individual tranquility.

Unique Design Approaches

One defining aspect of Bjorbath is the seamless integration of natural materials, particularly birch wood, which is used extensively throughout the interiors. This choice not only adds warmth but also pays homage to local traditions and sustainable practices. The use of glass as a primary cladding material generates transparency, creating visual connections between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The project employs sculpted concrete in spa facilities, presenting a design that emulates the natural forms found within the Icelandic landscape. The incorporation of glass blocks in specific locations allows for a dynamic interplay of light and color, transforming the spa experience throughout the day.

Community Focus and Functionality

Bjorbath promotes community through its thoughtful integration of a brewery within the spa complex. This addition provides a social space where visitors can enjoy beverages while engaging with each other, expanding the spa’s functionality beyond relaxation. The architectural layout facilitates fluid movement through public, semi-public, and private spaces, creating a diverse environment that can adapt to various visitor experiences.

In summary, Bjorbath represents a convergence of architecture and nature, designed to enhance the well-being of its visitors while fostering communal ties. For more details on the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that encapsulate this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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