Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cave-Inspired Retreat Crafted with Textured Concrete and Natural Clay

Authors:
Michael Good, Tyler Malone, Justin Oh
Cave-Inspired Retreat Crafted with Textured Concrete and Natural Clay

Project in-detail

Textured concrete and natural clay converge to create a cave-inspired retreat seamlessly integrated into the Latvian landscape, designed to offer restorative wellness experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Textured concrete surfaces mimic natural cave formations to enhance the sensory experience.
02
Natural clay is utilized in various applications for its thermal and aesthetic properties.
03
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems support sustainable thermal baths and pools.
04
Timber framing is designed to harmonize with the forest while ensuring structural integrity.
05
The layout guides visitors through a sequence of spaces that evoke a journey of relaxation.
The Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural project set within the natural landscapes of Latvia's Kureme Forest. This structure is designed to provide a restorative environment, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. Reflecting an organic design ethos, the project emphasizes harmony with its surroundings, presenting a modern interpretation of wellness spaces informed by natural geological forms such as caves.

Architecture and Function

The primary function of the Blue Clay Country Spa is to facilitate relaxation and well-being through various therapeutic offerings. The layout consists of interconnected spaces that guide users through distinct experiences, mirroring the spatial organization of a cave. Each area serves a specific purpose, including treatment rooms, thermal baths, quiet zones, and social spaces. The design promotes visitor engagement with its natural surroundings while encouraging a journey through different wellness experiences. The extensive use of glass allows for visual connections with the landscape, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

Unique Design Approaches

One notable aspect of this project is the integration of natural water systems. The design incorporates rainwater collection and reuse for thermal baths and pools, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the spatial transitions throughout the project are intentionally curated to evoke a sense of exploration, with each room offering a contrasting yet complementary environment. This biophilic approach not only enhances the psychological experience of visitors but also fosters a deeper connection with nature.

Materiality plays a critical role in defining the character of the Blue Clay Country Spa. The use of concrete, glass, timber, natural clay, and stone creates a tactile and sensory-rich environment. The concrete surfaces mimic the irregularity of cave walls while ensuring structural stability. Glass elements facilitate natural light penetration, which contributes to the overall ambiance of the space. Timber adds warmth and creates a seamless integration with the forested setting, while natural clay and stone bridge the gap between the building and its geological context.

Interactions of light and shadow throughout the space are carefully considered, allowing for a dynamic play of illumination that shifts with time. The strategic placement of openings provides both visual interest and natural ventilation, thereby enhancing the comfort within the spa facilities.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the Blue Clay Country Spa, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation further. Insights into the architectural ideas that shaped this design can provide a deeper appreciation of its intent and execution.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy