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Charred Wood And Thatch Integration For Enhanced Wellness Retreat Design

Authors:
Anna Tsitonaki, Vasilis Pliotas, Xanthippi Tzatha
Charred Wood And Thatch Integration For Enhanced Wellness Retreat Design

Project in-detail

Charred wood and thatched roofing harmonize with expansive views to create a wellness retreat that emphasizes natural healing and community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wood enhances durability while providing aesthetic depth.
02
Thatch roofing contributes to thermal regulation and local tradition.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural lighting and views.
04
Extensive use of cross-laminated timber minimizes environmental impact.
05
The layout fosters community interaction through a centralized courtyard.
The Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural project located in Latvia, designed to provide a wellness retreat that integrates the local cultural context with sustainable practices. The project encompasses various facilities, including therapy rooms, saunas, accommodations, and communal areas, all thoughtfully organized around a central courtyard. This layout not only facilitates social interaction but also ensures privacy for visitors.

The design represents a fusion of traditional Latvian wellness practices with modern architectural principles, emphasizing a connection to the natural landscape. By utilizing locally sourced materials, the project aims to minimize its environmental impact while reflecting the cultural heritage of the region. The spa serves as a space for relaxation, rejuvenation, and community engagement, catering to both locals and visitors.

Material Selection and Sustainability
The choice of materials in the Blue Clay Country Spa is integral to its design philosophy. Key materials include wood, charred wood, thatch, plasterboard, and glass. Wood is used extensively in the construction, providing warmth and durability, while charred wood is employed for its weather-resistant properties and aesthetic appeal. Thatch roofs maintain historical significance while offering natural insulation. Plasterboard provides a lightweight interior finish, and extensive use of glass enhances natural light, creating a seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces.

The project incorporates sustainable strategies, such as passive solar heating through building orientation and strategic glazing. Rainwater management systems are also a focus, supporting ecological sustainability and enhancing the site's functionality.

Holistic Design Approach
A unique feature of this project is its emphasis on the therapeutic value of landscape. The spatial organization encourages exploration and immersion in the surrounding natural environment. Treatment areas are intentionally located to offer views of the landscape, reinforcing the connection between well-being and nature. Furthermore, the sauna area is strategically placed adjacent to a pond, underscoring the importance of water in Latvian wellness traditions.

The design also promotes community interaction through communal spaces, fostering a sense of belonging among visitors. This approach is grounded in the belief that wellness extends beyond individual experiences to encompass community well-being, making the Blue Clay Country Spa a hub for social and cultural exchange.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Blue Clay Country Spa, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. This exploration will provide insights into the architectural innovations and materials that contribute to the spa's overall design narrative.
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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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