Clad in charred wood and transparent polycarbonate, this wellness facility blends into the Icelandic landscape, offering a unique communal bathing and relaxation retreat.
Wrapped in charred wooden shingles and built from cross-laminated timber, this community spa blends wellness, sustainability, and landscape-driven design in a remote Icelandic setting.
Utilizing local stone and Corten steel, the architectural approach integrates cave-like interiors with geothermal heating to create a contemporary spa that promotes wellness and community engagement.
Fluid curvilinear forms create an underwater sensation while promoting community engagement through flexible sleeping pods in a guesthouse that harmonizes with the landscape of Lake Myvatn.
Set against the volcanic backdrop of Hverfjall, the retreat utilizes charred wood to create immersive bathing experiences while reflecting the historical transformation of the surrounding landscape.
Constructed from rammed concrete and corten steel, the design harmonizes with the Icelandic landscape while providing essential accommodation and visitor facilities for exploring the unique geological formations of the Mývatn plateau.
Emerging from the volcanic landscape, basalt monoliths frame warm bathing areas that offer visitors a unique connection to the geological features of the Vogagjà Fault.
Incorporating recycled fabrics and inspired by the traditional Icelandic lur, the structure embodies a bathing elf, seamlessly integrating folklore with functionality for visitors at the Grjotagja thermal pools.
Crafted from precast elements and clad in polycarbonate, the design integrates geothermal energy while providing visitors with a unique bathing experience above Kvennagjá Cave.
Ana Jelen,Tiana Kastelic,Nejc Fajfar,Daniel Ilijeski
Modular aluminum bridges connect thematic caves along a tectonic divide, creating a unique experience that enhances visitor interaction within the stunning Icelandic landscape through innovative public spaces.
Utilizing charred wood shingles and geothermal energy, the facility integrates a brewing space with thermal baths, creating a community-oriented center that embraces the natural landscape of Iceland.
An undulating green roof integrates local timber and panoramic views while providing immersive beer bathing experiences in the serene landscape of Iceland.
Incorporating slanted glazing panels and honed basalt flooring, the guesthouse offers a blend of transparency and connection to the Icelandic landscape while providing a private retreat for visitors.
An elevated observatory formed with engineered wood and defined by semi-arches offers visitors panoramic views of Iceland's unique geological features while effectively separating tourist and bathing areas.
Constructed with organic wood panels and incorporating a grey-water system, the retreat seamlessly integrates into its natural surroundings while providing a tranquil space for wellness and reflection.
The geothermal heated copper roof serves as both a structural element and a viewpoint, enhancing the visitor experience in the unique geological landscape of the Grjótagjá caves, providing spaces for exploration and engagement with the natural environment.
Geothermal wells and metallic pipes create an immersive experience that connects visitors to the unique Icelandic landscape while serving as a multi-functional facility for relaxation and exploration.
Set against a tectonic landscape, the combination of local stones and Cross-Laminated Timber creates a distinctive structure that serves as both a bathing facility and an educational exhibition space, fostering a deep connection between visitors and the site's geological history.
Evolving from the natural landscape, the cascading Glu-lam forms integrate a sedum layer for ecological sustainability, creating a functional space for bathing that respects both local culture and geological heritage.
Elevated above the ground, the Modular Hyperbolic Pod integrates an anaerobic digester for sustainable waste management within a series of distinct modules designed for sleeping and bathing, all while enhancing connections to the surrounding landscape.
Utilizing a frame-wall structure and a steel plate system, the design integrates natural elements to facilitate interactive learning within the diverse ecosystems of the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve.
Constructed with plywood panels and strategically designed lightwells, these cabins utilize stone foundations to create versatile spaces for wellness and meditation.
Constructed using woven palm leaves and local materials, the visitor center integrates with the Al Wathba Wetland Reserve, providing educational spaces that foster a connection between visitors and the surrounding ecosystem.
An enclosed observation area with all-round visibility allows visitors to engage deeply with the surrounding landscape while a series of designed balconies promotes social interaction and solitude, functioning as an urban lookout point.
The proposal explores retreat spaces designed for quiet reflection and meditation. The study focuses on creating a calm environment that fosters a connection to nature while supporting both individual and group activities.
Incorporating a facade of burned wood that echoes Icelandic folklore, the retreat offers guests immersive views of Lake Mývatn and serves as a cultural haven for visitors seeking connection to local mythology and nature.
Henrique Giovani Canan,Maria Fernanda Del Giovannino De Oliveira,Lia Balassiano Strosberg,Gabriela Tiely Barros Giotoku
The design uses terraced landscapes to connect with the surrounding olive groves, creating a peaceful guest retreat that balances sustainability, community interaction, and everyday comfort.
Use architecture to create different emotional states
Edition #9ideas COMPETITIONSILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
Open architecture competitions
Closest deadline first
Project competitions first
Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
Ideas competitions
Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
Use architecture to create different emotional states
Edition #9ideas COMPETITIONSILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
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