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Transparent Glass Facade Enhancing Community Engagement in a Sustainable Timber Brewery

Author:
Piergiorgio Angius
Transparent Glass Facade Enhancing Community Engagement in a Sustainable Timber Brewery

Project in-detail

A transparent glass facade combined with natural timber elements establishes a cohesive architectural narrative that fosters community interaction within a sustainably designed brewery.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a sloped roof that mirrors the surrounding landforms.
02
Transparent glass walls create an immersive connection with the natural environment.
03
Modular construction allows for flexible space use and future adaptability.
04
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while reducing maintenance needs.
05
The facility is positioned to maximize views of the northern lights.

Ice-Björ is an architectural project located in the Myvatn region of northern Iceland. This facility is designed to serve as a brewery and community space, emphasizing a relationship between the built environment and the surrounding natural landscape. The project aims to enhance local tourism and create an inviting space for both local residents and visitors.

The design features a modern aesthetic characterized by the use of transparent materials that foster visual connectivity with the outdoors. The primary building material is glass, allowing for unobstructed views of the stunning Icelandic geography. Concrete underpins structural elements, providing necessary support and stability, while wooden accents create warmth within the interior spaces. Metal components are integrated into the brewing process, showcasing industrial functionality while enhancing the overall design integrity.

The Ice-Björ project represents an architectural commitment to transparency and interconnectivity. By prioritizing natural light and promoting views of the surrounding environment, the design enhances visitors’ experiences and underscores its contextual relevance. The structural configuration includes a sloped roof that reflects the contours of nearby natural formations, reinforcing the harmony between the building and its surroundings. The modular approach allows flexibility in use, accommodating various functions such as brewing, tasting, and community engagement.

Unique Design Approaches

The architectural design incorporates elements that distinguish Ice-Björ from similar projects. A key feature is the emphasis on sustainability, which influences material choices and operational practices. The transparent glass façade not only invites daylight but also positions the brewery as an open and educational space where the brewing process is visible to visitors. This approach demystifies brewing and fosters a deeper appreciation for the craft.

The layout is segmented into distinct yet interconnected areas, including the brewing section, tasting room, and relaxation zones. The rooftop terrace serves as an outdoor space that takes advantage of scenic views and natural phenomena, such as the northern lights. This multifunctionality encourages social interaction and reinforces the building’s role as a community hub.

Functional Spaces and Their Importance

The Ice-Björ design strategically prioritizes visitor experience through its functional spaces. The brewing area is at the heart of the facility, inviting exploration and offering educational opportunities regarding the brewing process. Adjacent to this is the tasting room, where visitors can sample local brews in a comfortable setting characterized by thoughtful seating arrangements and wood finishes. Relaxation areas are designed to provide respite, utilizing natural materials that enhance the sensory experience.

The integration of environmental considerations, modular construction, and community-focused design features contributes to an innovative outcome. This architectural project strives to connect people with the landscape, offering insights into the local culture and natural beauty of the Myvatn region.

To gain further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind Ice-Björ, viewers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. This resource provides valuable information on the design’s technical details and its contextual relevance within the Myvatn landscape.

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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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