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Charred Timber Facade and Expansive Glass Illuminate a Relaxation Hub in a Scenic Landscape

Authors:
Gaia Aoun, Mussa Sarkis El-zein
Charred Timber Facade and Expansive Glass Illuminate a Relaxation Hub in a Scenic Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing a charred timber facade and expansive glass elements, the facility merges modern wellness experiences with local brewing traditions, creating a unique spa destination surrounded by natural landscapes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a charred timber facade for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features expansive glass openings to maximize natural light and views of the landscape.
04
Integrates a bent A-frame design to facilitate effective water drainage and add visual interest.
05
Combines wellness facilities with brewery elements, promoting local cultural engagement.

The Sel Beer Spa is an architectural project designed as a wellness and recreation facility. Nestled within a natural landscape characterized by rolling hills and a serene water body, the spa explores the relationship between wellness and the local brewing culture. The building is intended to provide an immersive experience combining the therapeutic qualities of a spa with the leisure and enjoyment of a brewery.

The architectural design features a two-story structure specifically divided into two functional zones: the brewery and the wellness area. Visitors can engage in therapeutic beer baths, enjoy a restaurant and bar, and purchase souvenirs. Large windows are integrated throughout the design, enabling natural light to permeate the space and allowing occupants to connect with the outdoors.

Unique Integration of Environment and Structure

The Sel Beer Spa exemplifies a thoughtful integration of architecture with its environment. The design emphasizes the use of large glass panels that encourage interaction with the surrounding landscape, thereby creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The selection of materials further reflects this integration; concrete provides structural integrity, while timber elements add warmth to the interior and enhance user experience.

The structure employs a pitched roof with vertical elements that not only contribute to its aesthetic value but also serve practical purposes such as effective water drainage. This design approach resolves potential environmental challenges while reinforcing the overall architectural intent.

Functional Layout with Visitor Flow

A key aspect of the Sel Beer Spa is its functional layout that promotes fluid movement among various spaces. The ground floor accommodates essential services, including a reception area, brewery, souvenir shop, and a bar, all designed for easy accessibility. The first floor features treatment rooms, changing facilities, and a relaxation lounge, maintaining visitor privacy while facilitating ease of access to wellness services.

This careful arrangement contours the visitor experience, guiding them through both social and private areas, encouraging exploration and engagement with the spa's offerings.

In examining the Sel Beer Spa, one can appreciate the deliberate design strategies employed to harmonize function and environment while engaging the visitor's senses. For further details on architectural plans, sections, and designs, it is recommended to explore the project presentation to fully grasp the architectural ideas put forth in this project.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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