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Sustainable Spa Retreat With Geothermal Heating and Metal Cladding Amidst Icelandic Landscapes

Author:
Huangxiang Song
Sustainable Spa Retreat With Geothermal Heating and Metal Cladding Amidst Icelandic Landscapes

Project in-detail

Geothermal energy powers a spa retreat clad in metal and glass, seamlessly integrated into the Icelandic landscape while offering a unique beer-infused wellness experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geothermal heating system efficiently minimizes energy consumption.
02
A bent A-frame design enhances structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
03
Exterior metal cladding reflects the colors of the surrounding landscape.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels provide sustainable building solutions.
05
Beer-infused wellness treatments offer a unique guest experience.
The Brew Crater is an architectural project located in Iceland, designed to function as both a brewery and a spa. The project aims to enhance the tourism experience by offering unique wellness services that incorporate local brewing traditions. The design integrates comfortably with the surrounding landscape, utilizing a blend of materials and strategic layouts that promote both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The building’s form and materials echo the natural environment, showcasing a thoughtful approach to architecture that respects and enhances its context.

Sustainable Material Use and Aesthetic Integration

This project features a careful selection of materials that contribute to both its sustainability goals and its visual identity. High-performance glass facades facilitate interaction between the interior spaces and the external landscape, allowing for ample natural light and dynamic views. Metal cladding, chosen for its resonance with Iceland's geological features, provides durability and integrates the building visually with its surroundings. Additionally, wood elements are featured prominently in the interior, offering warmth to spaces dedicated to relaxation and leisure.

The architectural layout includes distinct zones tailored for specific functions. The ground floor accommodates the main entrance, bar, and brewing areas, while the first floor features a relaxation lounge and treatment rooms. This clear zoning enhances the user experience, ensuring that activities related to brewing and wellness coexist seamlessly. Notable architectural features include a uniquely shaped roof that enables natural light entry through strategically positioned skylights and the implementation of solar panels, which highlight a commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

Innovative Design Solutions

Brew Crater stands out with its dual-purpose design, effectively marrying the experiences of brewing and wellness in a cohesive environment. This integration presents a balanced juxtaposition of social interaction and solitude, appealing to a diverse audience. The project employs modular construction techniques, which not only streamline building processes but also support high-quality standards through controlled manufacturing conditions. Such an approach reduces waste and reinforces the project’s sustainability aims.

The incorporation of a beer spa within the architectural framework distinguishes the Brew Crater from conventional brewery designs. This innovative concept invites guests to enjoy beer-infused treatments in a tranquil setting, positioning the project as a unique wellness destination that celebrates local ingredients.

For more detailed insights into the Brew Crater, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Understanding the architectural ideas and layout details will provide deeper knowledge of how this project exemplifies modern architectural principles within a distinct locale.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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