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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define A Sustainable Spa Retreat

Authors:
Matteo D'Inca, Daniele Zandonella Necca
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define A Sustainable Spa Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design integrates seamlessly into the natural landscape, offering a tranquil wellness retreat that prioritizes sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to facilitate natural ventilation and maximize natural light.
04
Features modular units that allow flexible accommodation based on seasonal needs.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to promote water efficiency throughout the facility.

The Blue Clay Country Spa Village is an architectural project situated in the Kurzenie region of Latvia, designed to integrate wellness facilities within the natural landscape. This project exemplifies an ecological approach to architecture, aiming to provide a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. Its functional design includes modular accommodation, communal gathering spaces, and dedicated wellness areas, allowing for a multifaceted experience that caters to visitors seeking connection with nature.

The project adopts a modular hexagonal layout, distinguishing it from conventional spa resorts. Each unit operates independently yet harmonizes with the surrounding environment. This design facilitates flexibility, enabling various configurations to meet seasonal demands. The use of large windows and open spaces enhances natural light while creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, allowing guests to maintain a presence in the calming landscape.

Sustainability is a core principle of the Blue Clay Country Spa Village. The architecture incorporates locally sourced materials, such as sustainable timber for structural components and natural finishes that minimize environmental impact. Photovoltaic panels are strategically placed to provide energy autonomy, while rainwater harvesting systems ensure efficient water use. These measures reflect a commitment to minimizing ecological disruption and promote organic interactions with the surrounding ecosystem.

Innovative design elements set this project apart from standard wellness retreats. The integration of natural hot tubs and sauna facilities within the landscape emphasizes the importance of outdoor experiences. The guest house, while offering modern comforts, is designed with spaces that encourage socialization and community engagement, reinforcing the therapeutic aims of the facility. Dining areas extend to outdoor gardens, making use of local vegetation in both aesthetic and functional capacities.

The Blue Clay Country Spa Village serves as a model for contemporary architecture that prioritizes sustainability and wellness. Its design reflects a careful consideration of local context, cultural elements, and environmental responsibility, making it relevant to both visitors and the surrounding community. For more insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, exploring the project presentation can provide additional depth and understanding of this thoughtful endeavor.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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