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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.

### Overview

The Blue Clay Country Spa Village is located in the Kurzenie region of Latvia, characterized by its lush landscapes and distinct ecological features. The project aims to foster human interaction with the environment while emphasizing sustainability and the use of local materials. The design incorporates a modular approach that is intended to blend with the natural surroundings, catering to visitors seeking a tranquil and wellness-oriented experience.

### Spatial Arrangement and User Interaction

The design employs a hexagonal arrangement of structures, allowing for adaptability depending on seasonal needs and user preferences. This modular configuration not only enhances spatial flexibility but also facilitates effective air circulation and natural light infiltration, contributing to overall comfort. The architectural elements draw from local cultural influences, incorporating contemporary aesthetics alongside traditional motifs, which is evident in the angular forms and material choices throughout the facility. Key areas include a spa module featuring saunas and natural hot tubs that provide a direct connection to the landscape, as well as a guest house designed to offer a residential feel while maintaining ties to the natural environment. communal gardens and flexible dining areas further encourage social interaction among visitors.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Measures

The project prioritizes sustainable materials that are locally sourced, with wood from native birch and pine serving as the primary structural material for its natural insulation properties. Photovoltaic panels are integrated to harness solar energy, promoting energy independence. The use of polyester panels in roofing and wall systems enhances thermal efficiency while ensuring a lightweight construction approach. Extensive glazing throughout the design maximizes views and extends the experience of the surrounding natural landscape. To further prioritize health and environmental concerns, finishes with low chemical treatments are selected.

Advanced technologies have been incorporated to bolster sustainability; rainwater harvesting systems are employed for bathroom and landscaping usage, and radiant heating systems ensure year-round comfort with minimal ecological impact. The hexagonal design enhances the ability to accommodate diverse group sizes and functions, exemplifying a space that is both practical and environmentally conscious.

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

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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

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