Iceland Thermal
Springs Guest House

Competition introduction

Competition organisers

In Partnership With

Located on the east coast of Lake Mývatn in Northern Iceland, the Vogafjós Farm Resort is a family-owned guest house surrounded by breathtaking Icelandic landscape. The farm has been owned and operated by the same family for nearly 120 years and operates as a mixed-stock farm of nearly 120 sheep and about 40 cows and cattle.

With views of lava rocks and birch trees set against the stark surroundings, it makes the perfect location to spot the northern lights and visit the nearby geothermal hot springs that Iceland is famous for.


Nearby Lake Mývatn and Dimmuborgir Lava Fields;

Lake Mývatn is one of Europe’s greatest natural treasures, as within this protected area of fragile beauty is the Myvatn Nature Bath. Visiting these thermal spas is one of Iceland’s most popular pastimes and a tradition that dates back centuries. The geothermal waters contain a unique blend of minerals and properties that soothe the skin and the spirit alike. It is an experience not to be missed, as bathers are able to indulge in a completely natural experience relaxing in warm, soothing waters amidst clouds of steam that rise up from a fissure deep within the earth’s surface.


Nearby Grjotagja Hot Springs Cave and Myvatn Nature Bath;

In a partnership with the Vogafjós Farm Resort, the Iceland Thermal Springs Guest House architecture competition is searching for designs for an extension to their current property. Competition participants are asked to create an exclusive guest house with 8 - 10 guest rooms, each of which would incorporate views of the natural surroundings and the Aurora Borealis.


Two existing Vogafjós Farm guest houses; Resort’s attraction - restaurant and café where you can dine with the cows themselves, and even get fresh milk directly into your morning cup of coffee.

As winning designs will be put forward for consideration for construction, the jury will be looking for projects that focus on eco-friendly and cost-effective building techniques, in keeping with Iceland’s reputation as one of the greenest countries in Europe.

Download full competition brief for more information!

Competition is open to all. No professional qualification is required. Design proposals can be developed individually or by teams (4 team members maximum). Correspondence with organizers must be conducted in English; All information submitted by participants must be in English