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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Sustainable Spa Retreat

Author:
Julie Piper
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Sustainable Spa Retreat
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a seamless blend of sustainability and comfort in a contemporary spa retreat focused on wellness and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Preserves existing landscape elements to integrate seamlessly with nature.
05
Employs renewable energy solutions including solar panels for energy efficiency.

## Project Overview

The Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural design located in Latvia, focused on integrating modern sustainable practices with the surrounding natural landscape. The complex includes multiple structures such as a Guest House, Spa Center, Staff House, and Barn, each designed to promote relaxation and wellness while maintaining a strong connection to the environment.

### Site Arrangement

The layout of the spa is carefully organized to enhance views and preserve existing topography and vegetation. Each structure is positioned to optimize solar exposure, with longer facades oriented southward to improve energy efficiency. An inviting landscape features a lake, gardens, and a system of stone pathways that facilitate access and encourage exploration among the amenities. The presence of solar panels and wind turbines further underscores the commitment to energy independence.

### Material Composition

The architectural expression employs a blend of timber, stone, and metal in its exterior materials. Timber elements provide warmth and a natural aesthetic, while stone details offer durability and resonance with local geology. The angular, metal-clad roofs are designed to complement the modern aesthetic and support solar energy collection. Generous glazing is incorporated to ensure ample natural light, enhancing thermal comfort and occupant well-being throughout the interiors.

### Functional Spaces

The Guest House and Spa Center are dedicated to relaxation, featuring treatment rooms and leisure spaces designed for both privacy and social interaction. The Staff House addresses operational needs, providing functional accommodations while prioritizing comfort. The Barn serves as an auxiliary area that supports both agricultural activities and the overall operations of the spa. Pathways and greenery create connectivity between buildings, enhancing accessibility and enriching the experience of the natural surroundings, while outdoor spa and bathing areas are strategically placed to encourage engagement with the landscape.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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