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Charred Wooden Shingles and Blue Clay Integration in a Sustainable Lakeside Spa Retreat

Authors:
Michail Kokkinis, Kwnstantina Chamatzoglou, Pavlos Andrianos, Andreas Alexiou
Charred Wooden Shingles and Blue Clay Integration in a Sustainable Lakeside Spa Retreat

Project in-detail

Nestled in a tranquil lakeside setting, the design harmoniously integrates charred wooden shingles with blue clay, creating a soothing retreat that prioritizes wellness and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of blue clay integrated into the spa's construction enhances thermal performance and moisture regulation.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and increased durability against the elements.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes natural light while creating dynamic interior spaces.
04
Sustainable agriculture practices are incorporated on-site, allowing guests to engage with farming activities.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems feed irrigation, reducing the facility’s ecological footprint.
The Lakeside Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural project designed to harmoniously coexist with its natural environment in Latvia, a region characterized by its serene landscapes and rich ecological diversity. This project represents a commitment to wellness, sustainability, and a seamless integration of modern architecture with the surrounding nature. Its primary function is to provide a tranquil retreat where visitors can engage in restorative practices, experience the therapeutic benefits of spa treatments, and connect with the agricultural components of the site.

At the core of the design is the idea of creating a space that embraces the lake, influencing the overall layout and flow of the building. The architecture is defined by angular forms that reflect the contours of both the topography and the water’s edge. These forms facilitate a conversation between structure and landscape, allowing for extensive views of the surrounding scenery while also ensuring that the interior spaces are flooded with natural light. The building's layout promotes fluid movement, encouraging visitors to explore and engage with the environment as they transition between areas.

The material selection is intentional, focusing on sustainability and an aesthetic that invokes warmth and comfort. Predominantly, wood is utilized throughout the project, serving both structural purposes and enhancing the interior atmosphere. This choice not only ties the building to its natural surroundings but also aligns with contemporary standards of sustainability. Alongside wood, other materials such as metal, glass, and pebbles are integrated into the design. Metal elements contribute to durability and structural support, while glass is masterfully implemented to create expansive windows and sliding doors, fostering an uninterrupted connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The pebbles used in certain spa areas add a tactile quality that links back to the natural landscape.

Important components of the Lakeside Blue Clay Country Spa include the dedicated spa area, guest accommodations, and service facilities. The spa area serves as the heart of the project, housing various wellness amenities like bathing facilities, saunas, and relaxation zones that command views over the lake. This area is designed to promote relaxation and tranquility, allowing guests to unwind in a serene environment. The guest house is positioned to offer residential comfort while blending harmoniously with the overall design. Its living spaces are thoughtfully arranged to foster social interaction while providing vistas that enhance the guest experience. The service house accommodates the operational aspects of the facility, including space for staff, maintenance, and logistical support, ensuring that the amenities are maintained without disrupting the guest experience.

One unique aspect of the project is its robust commitment to ecological sustainability. The design incorporates natural systems for waste management and resource usage. Innovations such as biological waste processing, rainwater harvesting, and agricultural practices are embedded within the operational framework of the spa. This closed-loop system not only reduces environmental impact but also actively engages guests in the sustainability ethos of the project. Visitors are encouraged to partake in the agricultural experiences, thereby deepening their connection to the land and fostering an appreciation for environmentally responsible practices.

The Lakeside Blue Clay Country Spa exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture that prioritizes both human experience and ecological consciousness. The careful consideration of materials, the harmonious design with the natural landscape, and the integration of sustainable practices create a space that is not merely a retreat but a destination fostering wellness and sustainability. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this project further, including architectural plans, sections, and design concepts, please take the opportunity to delve into the project presentation to gain deeper insights into this unique architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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