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

Author:
Scott Morris
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Sustainable Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainable design, the Blue Clay Country Spa utilizes charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber to create a serene wellness retreat that harmoniously integrates with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The bathhouse is positioned next to a pond, incorporating water features into the wellness experience.
02
Local materials, including charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, connect the design to regional craftsmanship.
03
A celestial library with a dedicated star deck encourages guests to engage with astronomy and the night sky.
04
Green roofs across various buildings enhance thermal efficiency while promoting biodiversity in the landscape.
05
The farm-to-table dining concept emphasizes local agriculture, offering a culinary experience that reflects the region’s food culture.
The Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural project situated in the tranquil landscapes of Latvia, designed to serve as a holistic wellness retreat. This project represents a thoughtful integration of modern architecture with traditional Latvian elements, emphasizing sustainability and a deep connection with nature. The spa functions not only as a place for relaxation and rejuvenation but also as a community-focused facility that celebrates local culture and ecological responsibility.

At its core, the project is arranged around four primary structures: a guesthouse, a bathhouse, dining and reception areas, and several ancillary buildings. Each component has been carefully designed to support the overall objective of wellness and to provide guests with a serene environment conducive to relaxation. The guesthouse features large windows that connect the interior spaces with the stunning natural surroundings, promoting a sense of tranquility. The prominent use of timber as a primary material throughout these structures not only aligns with sustainable building practices but also enhances the warmth and comfort of the environment.

The bathhouse, a central feature of the Blue Clay Country Spa, is designed to elevate the experience of wellness. It includes various saunas and treatment rooms, arranged in a way that encourages natural light to saturate the spaces, thereby creating a calming atmosphere. Positioned strategically alongside a pond, the bathhouse emphasizes the importance of water in wellness and relaxation, intertwining the spa experience with the natural landscape.

The dining and reception area further underscores the project's commitment to community and sustainability. With an emphasis on a farm-to-table dining concept, this space allows guests to experience regional culinary offerings while promoting local agriculture. The extensive glazing in this area not only enhances the visual connection to the exterior scenery but also fosters a welcoming ambience for social interaction.

The project features a unique celestial library and a star deck that invite guests to explore astronomy and engage with the night sky, adding an educational dimension to the overall experience. This thoughtful inclusion emphasizes the design's dialogue with nature, encouraging visitors to appreciate the world beyond the built environment.

The approach towards materiality is a defining aspect of the Blue Clay Country Spa. By utilizing locally sourced materials such as timber, brick, moss, and limestone, the design resonates deeply with the cultural identity of Latvia. Green roofs are also incorporated across various buildings to minimize environmental impact, manage stormwater, and enhance insulation. Such considerations reflect a commitment to creating a truly sustainable architectural practice.

The architectural plans for the Blue Clay Country Spa illustrate a layout that is intentionally non-linear, allowing for a more organic flow of spaces that enhances the guest experience. Each building is placed in a manner that encourages exploration and interaction with both the interior and exterior settings. The systems employed within the spa, such as rainwater harvesting and composting toilets, further illustrate the commitment to minimizing the ecological footprint while promoting sustainable living.

Throughout the design process, unique architectural ideas have emerged, marrying the traditional with the modern in a manner that respects the local context. This project not only serves as a sanctuary for relaxation but also acts as a beacon of sustainable living, inspiring future developments in the region and beyond.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural elements and design intricacies of the Blue Clay Country Spa, the project presentation offers comprehensive architectural designs, plans, and sections that elucidate the thoughtful considerations behind every aspect of this engaging project. Exploring these resources will provide further insight into the innovative approaches that characterize the design of this wellness retreat.
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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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