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Cedar Wood Therapy Spaces Embracing Nature Within Concrete Enclosures

Author:
YUJI HARADA
Cedar Wood Therapy Spaces Embracing Nature Within Concrete Enclosures

Project in-detail

The integration of therapeutic cedar wood spaces around a central oak tree within a durable concrete structure creates a unique environment for relaxation and wellness in rural Latvia.
5 key facts about this project
01
The central design element is a large oak tree integrated into the layout.
02
Cedar wood is specifically used in therapy rooms for its calming properties.
03
Visitors can enjoy a winter tub positioned at the edge of the concrete wall.
04
Concrete walls create a boundary while allowing natural light to permeate.
05
Functional spaces are arranged to encourage interaction with the surrounding landscape.

The Time's Spa / Blue Clay Country Spa is a thoughtfully designed space located in the serene landscape of rural Latvia. It aims to create a connection between visitors and the natural environment while focusing on health and relaxation. The central idea revolves around a large oak tree, which serves as an important feature within the layout. This design enables easy movement through various spaces, encouraging users to experience the beauty of nature alongside the spa's amenities.

Conceptual Framework

The project's design takes cues from notable artworks, particularly El Bosco's "The Garden of Earthly Delights." This painting evokes themes of harmony between people and nature. The design reflects these ideas, allowing the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces to fade. Visitors are invited to explore and connect with both the built environment and the surrounding landscape, promoting a sense of well-being.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout is arranged around the central oak tree, creating a natural focal point. Areas such as the guest house, spa, and service facilities are placed thoughtfully to allow easy flow and movement. This organization enhances the connection with nature, as visitors can experience different environments while enjoying the spa's services. The arrangement encourages a sense of exploration and interaction with the outdoor landscape.

Material Considerations

Materials chosen for the construction are practical and enhance the overall experience. Concrete is used for the first floor, offering strength and durability. On the second floor, wood is employed, providing warmth and comfort to the spaces. Therapy rooms utilize cedar wood, known for its calming properties and pleasant aroma, which contributes to a soothing atmosphere.

Design Details

A notable design feature is the winter tub, strategically positioned at the edge of the concrete wall. This placement allows visitors to enjoy both sheltered comforts and the natural environment simultaneously. The design invites guests to embrace the elements while experiencing relaxation. This integration of the natural and built environments reinforces the project's aim of creating a balance that enhances the overall experience of well-being.

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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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