Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Timber Frame a Sustainable Spa Retreat

Authors:
Daniela Ciarcelluti, Greg Mathers, Vincenza De Vincenziis
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Timber Frame a Sustainable Spa Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and local timber, this eco-friendly retreat integrates seamlessly into its forested environment, offering a serene wellness spa experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles, the design enhances durability and fire resistance.
02
Local timber sourced from sustainable forests minimizes transportation emissions and supports the local economy.
03
A rainwater harvesting system collects and reutilizes water for eco-friendly operations.
04
Large glazing elements provide seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity while optimizing natural light.
05
The vegetable garden and greenhouse promote self-sufficiency and engage guests with sustainable practices.

## General Overview

The Blue Clay Country Spa is situated within a dense forest, designed to align with principles of sustainability while providing a therapeutic environment for guests. The project emphasizes ecological sensitivity and aims to minimize its environmental footprint by integrating with the surrounding landscape. The arrangement of structures reflects a dedication to respecting the natural context, allowing the architecture to coexist harmoniously with its environment.

## Spatial Distribution and User Experience

The spatial layout of the project features a series of interconnected structures, including a Guest House, Spa, Dining Room, and Staff House. Each facility is positioned to promote both community interaction and individual privacy. A central pathway runs through the site, guiding visitors in an exploratory experience that encourages engagement with the natural surroundings. The design prioritizes accessibility and fluidity, making it easier for guests to navigate between spaces while enjoying the tranquility of the forest.

## Materials and Sustainability Initiatives

Material selection plays a crucial role in achieving the sustainability objectives of the project. Locally sourced timber serves as the primary material for framing and cladding, reducing transportation emissions while providing aesthetic appeal. Large glass openings enhance natural light and connect interior spaces with the external environment, while concrete serves as a durable foundation, minimizing ground disturbance.

Sustainability strategies are integral to the design, incorporating a rainwater harvesting system for water reuse and greywater recycling. The inclusion of a vegetable garden and greenhouse highlights the commitment to self-sufficiency and local biodiversity. Educational features throughout the site aim to inform visitors about sustainable practices and the significance of ecological balance.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`

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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy