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Cerulean Clay Walls and Tranquil Pathways in a Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Michael Floryan, Isaac Greenetz, Jacob Young, Craig Pontius
Cerulean Clay Walls and Tranquil Pathways in a Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing blue clay walls and natural stone pathways, the design fosters a deep connection with the surrounding landscape while providing a serene environment for wellness and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Blue clay walls provide natural insulation and a unique aesthetic that reflects the local environment.
02
Wood privacy screens are designed to optimize light while maintaining seclusion for users.
03
Water features are integrated into the landscape to enhance tranquility and promote relaxation.
04
The layout emphasizes a sequential journey through treatment areas, encouraging mindful exploration.
05
Sustainable practices include rainwater collection to support landscape irrigation and resource efficiency.

### Overview

Located in a tranquil setting, The Nest Spa is designed to integrate holistic wellness with a focus on natural materials and privacy. The architectural intent is to create personalized spa experiences that encourage interaction with the surrounding landscape, fostering a deep connection between users and nature.

### Spatial Organization

The layout of the spa comprises multiple zones, each dedicated to specific relaxation and rejuvenation experiences. A carefully considered arrangement of pathways promotes exploration, inviting visitors to transition through various treatment areas in a way that enhances engagement with both the architecture and the environment. This design prioritizes a sensory journey, guiding users to appreciate each distinct space as part of a cohesive experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality is a core aspect of the design, with blue clay featuring prominently in the walls to link the structure to the local landscape through its natural texture and color. Wood is utilized for privacy screens and pathways, adding warmth and tactile interest, while large glass panels optimize natural light and views, facilitating a connection to the outdoors. Concrete provides structural durability, and stone accentuates outdoor water features, reinforcing the relationship with nature. Sustainable practices, including rainwater collection systems, are embedded in the design, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility while enhancing the spa’s ecological footprint.

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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
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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