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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

Project in-detail

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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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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