Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wood Cladding and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Seamless Integration With Nature in Wellness Retreat

Author:
Grant Mears
Charred Wood Cladding and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Seamless Integration With Nature in Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

The use of charred wood cladding and cross-laminated timber harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, creating a wellness retreat that emphasizes both sustainability and serene user experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles are used for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for increased interior volume and natural light.
04
Native planting is incorporated into landscaping for ecological integration.
05
Large glass panels facilitate seamless indoor-outdoor transitions and views.
This architectural project is designed as a wellness retreat, located in a setting distinguished by its natural landscape. The structure is purposefully integrated into the terrain, emphasizing a strong connection between the built environment and the surrounding nature. The project encompasses spaces dedicated to relaxation, reflection, and social interaction, positioning itself as a multifunctional venue catering to diverse user needs.

****Spatial Arrangement and Functionality

The architectural design features a thoughtful spatial arrangement that promotes both privacy and communal engagement. Key areas include meditation rooms, recreational spaces, and a swimming pool, all oriented to facilitate a seamless flow between interior and exterior environments. The use of expansive glass panels enhances visibility and light penetration, fostering an open atmosphere while preserving privacy in specific zones.

The design prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that pathways are intuitively laid out, guiding users through the landscape. The meditation garden serves as a focal point, drawing individuals outside for quiet reflection, while the pool area is designed for social gatherings. This attentiveness to user experience is complemented by the choice of materials, particularly the use of local stone and wood, enhancing the retreat’s ecological footprint.

****Innovative Design Approaches

What distinguishes this project from others in the domain of architectural design is its commitment to sustainability and its integration with the landscape. The building's foundation employs natural stone to create a sense of permanence, while the wooden elements introduce warmth and contrast against the modern aesthetic. The design actively supports local ecology through the incorporation of native planting into the landscaping, which enhances biodiversity and promotes local flora.

The fluid layout encourages adaptability, allowing spaces to transition based on user interactions throughout the day. This flexibility is reinforced by the architectural sections that showcase varied ceiling heights and open-plan design, enabling a versatile use of each area. Moreover, the emphasis on minimizing environmental impact aligns the project with current architectural trends toward sustainability.

****Material Selection and Aesthetic Cohesion

Materiality plays a critical role in this architectural design. The balance between concrete, glass, timber, and stone not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but also enhances the functional performance of the structure. Concrete is utilized in the pool area for durability, while large glass panels facilitate thermal efficiency and natural ventilation.

In summary, the architectural project is characterized by its functional spaces and meticulous attention to detail in both layout and material selection. For further insights into this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, readers are encouraged to explore additional project presentations and resources available.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy