Laugarás Lagoon Has a Timber Roof Inspired by Icelandic Cave Dwellings
Laugarás Lagoon is a 3,000-square-metre wellness destination designed by T.ark Architects in Laugarás, Iceland. The spa is defined by a grass-covered glue-laminated timber roof that the studio describes as a "grass tent," drawing inspiration from the region's historic hand-carved cave dwellings and cultivated landscapes.
Large parabolic openings puncture the structure to frame views of the surrounding scenery and geothermal pools. The two-storey complex contains restaurant, reception, changing, and spa facilities arranged beneath the sweeping roof form, with locally sourced timber used throughout both the interior and exterior.
The wellness centre overlooks two stepped geothermal pools connected by a small waterfall and positioned to create distinct experiences. An upper pool frames views of a nearby river, bridge, and mountains, while a lower pool is enclosed by trees and stone walls for greater privacy. Swim-up bars, a cold-water plunge, and dry saunas are integrated into the complex
Image Credit: Hli?n Arngri?msdo?ttir
Large parabolic openings puncture the structure to frame views of the surrounding scenery and geothermal pools. The two-storey complex contains restaurant, reception, changing, and spa facilities arranged beneath the sweeping roof form, with locally sourced timber used throughout both the interior and exterior.
The wellness centre overlooks two stepped geothermal pools connected by a small waterfall and positioned to create distinct experiences. An upper pool frames views of a nearby river, bridge, and mountains, while a lower pool is enclosed by trees and stone walls for greater privacy. Swim-up bars, a cold-water plunge, and dry saunas are integrated into the complex
Image Credit: Hli?n Arngri?msdo?ttir
Trend Themes
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Biophilic Roofscapes — Grass-covered, earth-integrated roofs that blend buildings into landscapes create opportunities for immersive nature-connected guest experiences and microclimate regulation.
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Geothermal-integrated Wellness — Integration of natural geothermal pools and heat sources into hospitality design enables year-round thermal amenities that reduce reliance on fossil fuels and create distinct bathing rituals.
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Locally Sourced Mass-timber Construction — Widespread use of glue-laminated timber and regional timber supplies supports low-carbon structural systems that convey authenticity and reduce embodied emissions.
Industry Implications
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Hospitality and Wellness Tourism — Resort and spa operators can leverage site-specific thermal features and landscape-integrated architecture to differentiate high-value experiential stays.
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Sustainable Construction and Materials — Builders and material manufacturers face growing demand for engineered timber assemblies and green-roof systems that meet performance, longevity, and ecodesign standards.
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Renewable Energy and Heat Management — Geothermal heating and heat-exchange technologies present avenues for decentralized thermal networks that pair with recreational water features and building heating needs.
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