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Charmed By Charred Wood Shingles And Sustainable Glass Facades In A Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Nayla Arida Abboud, Shirine Sbaiti
Charmed By Charred Wood Shingles And Sustainable Glass Facades In A Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood shingles and expansive glass facades, the design seamlessly merges with its natural surroundings to create an adaptable wellness retreat focused on relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for superior durability and fire resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural stability.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design for optimized snow management and aesthetics.
04
Utilizes large glass facades to maximize natural light and views of the landscape.
05
Includes a modular layout, allowing for flexible use of space and future expansion.
The Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural project situated in Latvia, designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape while serving as a wellness retreat. This project utilizes a modular design approach, characterized by flexible configurations that foster a connection between architecture and nature. It aims to provide a tranquil environment for relaxation and rejuvenation, responding to contemporary demands for wellness facilities.

Unique Design Approach

One of the distinguishing features of the Blue Clay Country Spa is its modular construction. Each building unit functions independently while contributing to the overall cohesion of the site. This flexibility allows the design to adapt to changing needs over time, making it suitable for various functional configurations. The structures are arranged to optimize views of the scenic surroundings, ensuring that users can experience the natural beauty that defines the region.

Sustainability is a core tenet of the project. The architecture integrates renewable materials, such as wooden cladding, which not only provide aesthetic warmth but also align with local building traditions. Large glass windows maximize natural light while offering expansive views, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor environments. Additionally, the incorporation of energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels and water collection mechanisms, enhances the project's self-sufficiency and reduces its environmental impact.

Technical Integration and Functionality

The architectural design considers climatic conditions prevalent in Latvia, including snow accumulation during winter months. The sloping roofs facilitate snow management, preventing excessive weight on structural elements. Concrete flooring and insulation systems ensure durability and temperature control throughout the year.

Internally, the layout accommodates various wellness treatments, communal spaces, and private retreats. This design not only prioritizes user experience by creating designated areas for relaxation but also allows for multifunctional spaces that can be adapted as needed.

For professionals and enthusiasts wishing to explore the Blue Clay Country Spa further, examining architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into its innovative approach and functionality. The project serves as a relevant case study in modern architectural practices focused on sustainability, modularity, and user-centered design.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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