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Tapered Structure with Transparent Glass and Natural Timber Exploring Brewing and Wellness

Author:
Xing Gao
Tapered Structure with Transparent Glass and Natural Timber Exploring Brewing and Wellness

Project in-detail

A tapered structure of transparent glass and natural timber integrates with the landscape to create a dedicated space for the craft of brewing and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Tapered structure enhances the visual connection with the surrounding landscape.
02
Extensive use of transparent glass promotes natural light and visibility throughout.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural support and aesthetic warmth.
04
Charred wooden shingles create a unique exterior texture and improve durability.
05
Multi-level layout offers distinct spatial experiences for brewing and relaxation.

### Project Overview
The Crater Beer Spa and Distillery Experience is located in a strategically selected area that enhances visitor interaction through its thoughtful architectural design. The project integrates the building into the surrounding landscape, establishing a cohesive relationship between the structure and its natural environment. This design aims to provide an immersive experience that educates and engages visitors in the craft of brewing.

### Spatial Organization
The facility is organized across three distinct levels, each serving a unique purpose that facilitates visitor interaction and enjoyment.

- **Ground Floor:** This level features an open layout dedicated to the brewery tour and bar, promoting visibility and social engagement. Key design elements include prominently displayed brewery tanks and seating arrangements that encourage interaction among guests.
- **First Floor:** Featuring a balcony and circular staircase, this level offers an elevated viewpoint of the brewing area below. The design supports fluid navigation and enhances the visitor experience through a visual connection to the brewing process.
- **Second Floor:** Reserved for the spa, this upper level provides a tranquil retreat with views of the surrounding landscape. The positioning of the spa emphasizes serenity and allows guests to unwind after their brewery experience.

### Material Selection
The materiality of the structure is integral to conveying the ethos of the brewery and spa experience.

- **Wood** is extensively utilized for beams, flooring, and decorative elements, imparting warmth and an organic feel to the interior.
- **Glass** is employed to maximize natural light, promoting an airy atmosphere and connecting the indoor spaces with the exterior landscape.
- **Concrete** is used for its structural integrity, contrasting with the warmth of wood and glass to create dynamic textural elements throughout the building.

### Design Characteristics
Distinctive aspects of the design include a configuration inspired by the shape of a crater, reflecting the thematic concept of the project. The structure is elevated by tapered wooden supports, symbolically resembling beer fermenters. Multi-level viewing platforms facilitate diverse observation angles of the brewing processes, enriching the visitor's understanding and appreciation of the craft. The architecture not only fulfills functional requirements but also enhances its aesthetic appeal.

### Landscape Integration
The design considers the contours and features of the surrounding landscape, ensuring that the building harmonizes with its environment. The contemporary architectural language engages in a dialogue with the natural setting, reinforcing the relationship between nature and craftsmanship throughout the visitor 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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