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Cerulean Clay Retreat Framed in Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood

Authors:
Kohki Hiranuma, Takehiro Muramatsu, Shoko Matsumoto, Sachiko Hiranuma
Cerulean Clay Retreat Framed in Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood

Project in-detail

Emphasizing its unique blue clay façade and the warmth of cross-laminated timber, the spa seamlessly integrates with its forested surroundings to provide a rejuvenating retreat for relaxation and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building's façade is crafted from local blue clay, providing a unique aesthetic and thermal properties.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while reducing environmental impact.
03
Charred wooden shingles create a distinctive appearance and promote fire resistance.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and views while integrating seamlessly with the forest landscape.
05
Spatial transitions within the spa encourage immersion in nature, promoting a sense of tranquility and wellness.
The Blue Clay Country Spa emerges as a thoughtfully designed architectural project that seamlessly integrates with the serene landscape of Latvia. This spa facility is intended to be a refuge for relaxation and rejuvenation, where the beauty of nature and the comfort of carefully curated spaces coalesce to create an inviting environment. The architecture of this project represents an innovative response to the need for wellness spaces that foster connection—with oneself and the surrounding natural world.

Functionally, the Blue Clay Country Spa serves multiple purposes, from offering luxurious spa treatments to providing communal gathering spaces for dining and socialization. The careful organization of the various areas ensures that guests can experience a range of activities tailored to enhance their well-being. At the heart of the design is a commitment to creating a tranquil atmosphere that promotes relaxation, with each space contributing to the overall experience of comfort and peace.

A defining characteristic of the project is its effective integration with the lush surroundings. The architects designed the structure to harmonize with the natural features, emphasizing the role of landscaping in the overall aesthetic. The spa strategically utilizes natural materials—most notably wood and blue clay—reflecting local resources and enhancing the sense of place. The wooden elements warm the interiors, while the blue clay provides a unique textural quality to the façade, elevating the building's visual appeal without overwhelming its tranquil essence.

In terms of architectural design, the spa features a combination of open and intimate spaces, allowing for fluid movement throughout the facility. The thoughtful placement of communal areas, such as the dining and social spaces, encourages interaction among guests, while retreat areas offer solitude and relaxation. This duality is further emphasized through spatial transitions, where guests can experience a sense of journey as they move from one space to another.

The architectural layout includes thoughtful sight lines that create visual connections to the external landscape. Large windows and strategically placed skylights enhance the interior's natural light, echoing the filtering light patterns found in a forest. This design approach not only illuminates the interior but also fosters a sense of connection between the inside and outside, allowing guests to remain engaged with their natural surroundings.

In addition to its aesthetic qualities, the Blue Clay Country Spa is underpinned by sustainable design practices. The use of environmentally conscious materials and techniques contributes to the overall sustainability of the building, aligning with a broader commitment to ecological responsibility in architecture. This sustainable approach not only benefits the environment but also enhances the user experience, reinforcing the connection between wellness and nature.

The detailing of the spa’s structural elements further underscores the uniqueness of the design. Features such as the double-laminated glass walls and the reinforced concrete foundation support the structure while allowing for expansive, uninterrupted views of the landscape. This innovative use of materials aids in creating a modern yet naturally harmonious retreat that appeals to contemporary sensibilities.

In summary, the Blue Clay Country Spa exemplifies an architectural endeavor that thoughtfully responds to its context, prioritizing user comfort and connection to nature. It is a project that embodies innovative design principles while remaining grounded in functionality, showcasing how architecture can serve as an intermediary between human experiences and the natural world. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this architectural design, including architectural plans and sections, further details can be found by delving into the project's presentation.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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