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Volcanic Stone Retreat with Thermal Bath and Panoramic Views

Authors:
Nikita Boldin, Natalia Nikolaeva
Volcanic Stone Retreat with Thermal Bath and Panoramic Views
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Constructed with volcanic stone and surrounded by panoramic views, the retreat includes individual guest houses and a thermal bath designed to enhance relaxation and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to provide uninterrupted views of the Northern lights from each guest room.
02
Features a thermal bath in the central courtyard, enhancing wellness experiences.
03
Constructed with locally sourced volcanic stone for natural insulation.
04
The arrangement of semi-detached guest houses fosters community interaction.
05
Incorporates large panoramic windows to connect indoor spaces with the landscape.

The Vogafjós Farm Resort is a mini-hotel located in the scenic landscape of Iceland. It is designed to offer visitors a place to escape the busy city life. The resort focuses on wellness and relaxation, incorporating natural hot springs and providing impressive views of the volcano Hverfjall and the Northern lights. The design aims to create a calm atmosphere where guests can connect with nature while enjoying both personal privacy and community.

Architecture Concept

The layout of the resort includes a central building and several individual guest houses. These structures are organized around a closed courtyard, which encourages social interaction among guests while still providing private spaces. The main area features comfortable seating arranged around a fireplace and has large windows that offer captivating views of the landscape. This layout fosters a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor environments.

Guest Accommodations

Each guest house has a traditional design, functioning as a separate unit that fits well in the peaceful surroundings. Some houses are built as semi-detached structures, which maximizes space and creates a friendly atmosphere. This careful arrangement allows guests to experience both community and solitude, depending on their needs.

Material Selection

The choice of materials reflects the local context and the practical requirements of the environment. The exterior walls are finished with light plaster, providing a gentle appearance and helping to withstand the elements. Volcanic stone is used in the basement, chosen for its excellent insulation properties, which contribute to energy efficiency. The roof is covered with corrugated metal, a suitable option for protection against Iceland's outdoor conditions.

Design Details

A thermal bath is a central feature in the courtyard, inviting guests to relax in warm water surrounded by nature. This addition enhances the overall wellness experience offered by the resort while strengthening the relationship with the beautiful landscape. Each guest room is designed to maximize views of the Northern lights, with large windows that allow guests to fully engage with the stunning Icelandic scenery. The design encourages a sense of peace and connection, highlighting the unique qualities of the location.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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