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Birch Bark Cladding and Sustainable Timber Design in a Wellness Retreat

Author:
Scott Morris
Birch Bark Cladding and Sustainable Timber Design in a Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Employing birch bark cladding and locally sourced timber, the design integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings to create a wellness retreat focused on relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes birch bark cladding for enhanced insulation and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.
03
Features an intimate sauna lounge designed for social and solitary experiences.
04
Integrates a green roof to support biodiversity and thermal regulation.
05
Emphasizes local materials to reflect the cultural heritage of Latvia.

### Overview

The Blue Clay Country Spa is located in Latvia and features a comprehensive design aimed at creating a wellness retreat. The project includes four primary structures: a bathhouse, guesthouse, dining and reception building, and additional recreational amenities. The design integrates aspects of the natural landscape and traditional Latvian architectural practices, emphasizing well-being and relaxation.

### Spatial Organization and User Engagement

The spatial layout promotes exploration, with pathways connecting various structures amidst landscaped areas, symbolizing a journey toward personal enhancement. Key programmatic elements, such as the Celestial Library and Terrarom Playground, are designed not only for leisure but also to foster reflection and creativity among guests. Each structure serves a distinct purpose while contributing to an overall cohesive experience tailored to personal rejuvenation.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Features

Local materials play a significant role in the design, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and regional identity. The use of timber from Latvia's forests supports local economies and environmental practices. Brick and sustainable birch bark are incorporated for their aesthetic and thermal properties, complemented by moss and peat, which enhance the interior spaces. Green roof systems reduce impermeable surfaces and promote biodiversity.

Sustainable features include a smart building orientation that maximizes natural light and heat, a rainwater collection system for reuse, and a food waste management strategy to enrich local soil. The design also considers seasonal changes to optimize thermal comfort through passive heating methods.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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