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Cerulean Clay Walls and Wattle Construction in a Serene Wellness Retreat

Author:
Nolan Loh
Cerulean Clay Walls and Wattle Construction in a Serene Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted from local blue clay and traditional wattle techniques, the retreat integrates a green roof and permaculture gardens to create a restorative wellness environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using wattle and daub construction with local blue clay for enhanced thermal efficiency.
02
Integrates a green roof that promotes biodiversity and reduces energy consumption.
03
Features permaculture gardens designed to sustain the retreat's culinary needs.
04
Incorporates large windows for natural light and views, enhancing the connection to nature.
05
Utilizes traditional local building techniques to reduce environmental impact and promote cultural heritage.

## Overview

Located beside a tranquil water body, the Blue Clay Country Spa incorporates contemporary architectural practices while prioritizing sustainability and user well-being. Designed as a retreat that harmonizes with the surrounding ecosystem, the spa aims to foster a connection between the built environment and nature. The project emphasizes the importance of environmental responsibility and serves as a platform for exploring efficient, sustainable design in response to changing climatic conditions.

## Spatial Composition and Interaction

The layout features several interconnected structures organized around a central communal space, facilitating both community engagement and privacy for guests. The spatial arrangement includes open areas that maximize visual access to the water and surrounding landscape, promoting a calming atmosphere. Each section is designed to accommodate varied uses, from communal gatherings to individual retreats, enhancing the overall user experience.

## Material and Sustainability Strategies

The spa utilizes traditional wattle and daub techniques for its walls, employing local materials such as blue clay and wood for structural integrity while also providing thermal insulation. Notably, the green roof serves as a natural water purification system and contributes to energy efficiency by lowering ambient temperatures and enhancing insulation.

Innovative construction techniques include a triple-layer thermal system designed to optimize energy efficiency and comfort. Additionally, the project's commitment to sustainable agriculture is exemplified by the incorporation of hugelkultur gardening, which promotes permaculture practices and engages visitors with ecological stewardship. This multifaceted approach highlights the project's dedication to reducing its carbon footprint while fostering an immersive connection with the natural environment.

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

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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