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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Serene Rural Wellness Retreat

Authors:
PIER PAOLO CHULLEN, FABIAN ORTIZ, JOEL ORELLANA
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Serene Rural Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this wellness retreat harmoniously blends modern architecture with its natural surroundings to create a serene space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The retreat incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized to create open spaces while minimizing environmental impact.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Natural water features are integrated throughout the site, promoting a calming atmosphere for guests.
05
Community gardens and greenhouses support sustainability and offer fresh produce for the retreat’s kitchen.
The Blue Clay Country Spa project embodies a thoughtful approach to architecture that seamlessly integrates wellness, nature, and modern design. Nestled in a tranquil rural environment, this project serves as a holistic retreat aimed at promoting relaxation and rejuvenation for its visitors. The architecture champions an ethos of health and well-being through a carefully crafted layout that emphasizes a connection to the surrounding landscape, ultimately creating a serene ambiance throughout the facility.

As a spa, this project serves multiple functions, combining guest accommodations, treatment facilities, and communal spaces that foster both private reflection and social interaction. The spatial organization is deliberate, with structures designed to facilitate a smooth flow of movement while also allowing for intimate gatherings. This arrangement not only enhances the guest experience but promotes a sense of community among visitors, highlighting the social aspects of wellness.

One notable aspect of the design is the emphasis on natural light and outdoor connection through large, strategically positioned windows and open areas. This allows the indoor spaces to benefit from the surrounding views, creating a continuous dialogue between the interiors and the exterior landscape. The careful placement of structures enhances the experience of nature, with guests encouraged to engage with their environment throughout their stay.

The materiality of the Blue Clay Country Spa is intentionally selected to reflect both sustainability and aesthetic cohesiveness. Key materials such as wood are prominent throughout the design, imparting warmth and tranquility. Glass plays a crucial role in blurring the boundaries between inside and outside, while also maximizing natural light. The integration of solar panels underlines the commitment to environmental responsibility, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to energy use in architectural design.

In addition to traditional spa facilities like treatment rooms and saunas, the project includes spaces for dining, therapy sessions, and recreational activities. This diverse set of amenities underscores the multifaceted experience that the spa aims to provide, catering to various needs and preferences. Accessories such as a greenhouse and vegetable garden further enhance the spa setting, reflecting a holistic lifestyle that values sustainability and self-sufficiency.

A distinctive feature of this project is its design philosophy that prioritizes privacy while still fostering community. Individual accommodations are arranged to provide a sense of seclusion, thereby allowing guests to unwind without feeling isolated. The spatial configuration not only respects personal space but also encourages interaction in communal areas, striking a balance that is often difficult to achieve in architectural design.

Overall, the Blue Clay Country Spa represents a commitment to creating a nurturing environment that values both individual wellness and collective experience. Its innovative design ideas are an embodiment of contemporary architectural practices that focus on sustainability and harmony with nature. This project invites visitors to immerse themselves in a serene escape from everyday life, allowing for both relaxation and rejuvenation.

For those interested in diving deeper into the project, exploring the architectural plans and sections will provide valuable insights into the design intent and spatial organization. By examining the architectural designs and various architectural ideas presented in the project, readers can gain a fuller understanding of how the Blue Clay Country Spa achieves its mission of wellness and connectivity with nature.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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