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Transparent Brewery Crafted from Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enveloping a Spa Retreat

Authors:
Lok Ching Vanessa Chen, Hiu Ki Lam, Theean Log-yi Chan
Transparent Brewery Crafted from Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enveloping a Spa Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design integrates an open brewery within a wellness-focused spa, promoting a communal experience while immersing visitors in the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
02
The brewery area is fully transparent, allowing visitors to observe the brewing process.
03
Features extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
04
Integrated landscape gardens promote a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
05
Designed to utilize geothermal energy, aligning with sustainable practices.

The Treasure Box, located near Sel Hotel in Iceland, serves as a dual-purpose facility, acting as both a spa and a brewery. This project blends wellness services with brewing traditions, promoting a communal experience centered around relaxation and social engagement. The architectural design reflects the unique Icelandic landscape, welcoming visitors to appreciate their surroundings while participating in the respective services offered.

The layout includes various functional spaces, beginning with a central atrium that acts as the focal point. Surrounding this area are changing rooms, pools, and communal lounges, all designed to facilitate ease of movement and interaction among guests. The brewery is strategically positioned to provide visitors with a direct view of brewing operations, integrating the production process into the visitor experience and fostering a sense of transparency and participation.

Unique Design Approaches

The design of the Treasure Box incorporates local materials that resonate with the natural environment. Reinforced concrete provides structural stability while enabling open and airy spaces. Timber elements introduce warmth, evoking traditional Icelandic architecture that helps blend the new structure with its surroundings. Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light and maintains a visual connection to the stunning Icelandic landscape, allowing occupants to remain engaged with the outdoors.

One of the distinctive aspects of this project is its emphasis on social interaction and community. By situating communal spaces in prominent locations and designing them to be inviting and open, the architecture encourages guests to gather, share experiences, and connect with one another. The dual functionality of incorporating a brewery with spa services sets this project apart, as it integrates relaxation with cultural and artisanal appreciation, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Architectural Details and Functionality

Key features of the Treasure Box project include the landscape garden, which serves as a tranquil environment while bridging the indoor and outdoor areas. This garden not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also encourages visitors to step outside and engage with nature. The layout of the changing areas and relaxation pools ensures privacy while facilitating accessibility to the central spa amenities.

The brewery itself operates in an open format, allowing guests to observe and learn about the brewing process, thus emphasizing the importance of local craftsmanship. This design choice not only informs visitors about the art of brewing but also reinforces the cultural significance of local beers in Icelandic society.

For those interested in detailed insights about this project, an exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will offer a comprehensive understanding of its innovative approach and functional elegance. Delve into the specifics of this project to appreciate how its design effectively merges the physical environment with the cultural narrative of Iceland.

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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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