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Charred Wood Shingles and Green Roofs Enhance Wellness Retreat in Natural Setting

Authors:
Eric Brooks, Brad Pineau, Keith Cash
Charred Wood Shingles and Green Roofs Enhance Wellness Retreat in Natural Setting

Project in-detail

Showcasing charred wood shingles and a green roof, the design integrates sustainable materials with the landscape to create a functional wellness retreat focused on relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a living green roof to enhance insulation and reduce runoff.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels to minimize carbon footprint.
04
Includes strategically placed water features to promote relaxation and tranquility.
05
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and views.
The Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural project located in Kurzemes, designed to integrate wellness with the natural environment. The structure emphasizes a harmonious relationship between the built environment and its surroundings, providing a serene space dedicated to relaxation and rejuvenation.

The primary function of the spa is to offer a variety of wellness services, including therapeutic treatments, relaxation areas, and communal spaces. It aims to create a sanctuary for guests seeking respite from daily life. The design promotes individual and communal experiences, allowing visitors to engage with both the facility and the natural landscape.

A notable feature of the Blue Clay Spa is its extensive use of wood and glass, which fosters a connection to nature. The structure incorporates large expanses of glazing, ensuring ample natural light while offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The choice of materials, including sustainably sourced wood and robust concrete, enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the building.

Unique design approaches include the dynamic roof architecture, which not only serves a functional purpose but also contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the structure. The roof design creates varying degrees of exposure to sunlight and utilizes natural ventilation, making the interior spaces more comfortable and energy-efficient.

An additional distinctive element is the integration of therapeutic water features within the design. These features are strategically placed to enhance the wellness experience. The project also employs advanced water management strategies, such as bio-swales, which contribute to ecological sustainability without compromising the visual integrity of the site.

The layout of the Blue Clay Spa is another critical aspect. Careful consideration has been given to circulation paths, guiding visitors through a sequence of spaces that encourage exploration and discovery. Accessibility has been prioritized, ensuring that all visitors can navigate the spa effortlessly.

Overall, the Blue Clay Country Spa embodies a functional, well-designed approach focused on enhancing the wellness experience through thoughtful architecture. For more detailed insights, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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