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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.

The Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural design project that emphasizes sustainability while providing a tranquil retreat for visitors. Situated in a forested area, the design harmonizes with its surroundings, demonstrating a commitment to ecological principles. The project includes multiple structures: a Guest House, Spa, Dining Room, and Staff House. Each building is strategically placed to facilitate accessibility and natural flow throughout the site.

The architecture promotes a healthy lifestyle, incorporating wellness-focused spaces that cater to relaxation and rejuvenation. A thoughtful arrangement of pathways encourages interaction with the natural setting, making the experience both communal and introspective.

Sustainable Design Approaches

What sets the Blue Clay Country Spa apart is its thorough integration of sustainable design strategies. Locally sourced timber is utilized for construction, minimizing the carbon footprint associated with material transportation. This choice also enhances the project’s aesthetic alignment with its natural environment. Large glazing elements provide ample natural light while connecting indoor experiences to the surrounding landscape.

The project employs a rainwater harvesting system that efficiently collects and reuses water, alongside a greywater recycling system that further reduces environmental impact. These elements exemplify an innovative approach to responsible resource management. Additionally, the inclusion of a vegetable garden and greenhouse signifies a commitment to self-sufficiency and sustainable living, encouraging guests and staff alike to engage with ecological practices.

Spatial Organization and User Experience

The spatial layout of the Blue Clay Country Spa is designed to maximize both functionality and comfort. The Guest House offers living and sleeping quarters that prioritize privacy and tranquility. The Spa features various wellness areas, including therapy rooms and a sauna, providing a comprehensive experience focused on relaxation. The Dining Room is positioned to offer views of the forest, allowing guests to enjoy meals in a serene setting.

Each structure within the project is connected by carefully planned pathways, promoting exploration and interaction among different spaces. This design fosters a sense of community without sacrificing individual privacy, creating a balanced environment for all users.

For a deeper understanding of the Blue Clay Country Spa, consider exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs. These elements unveil the careful thought and technical precision behind the project, showcasing a modern approach to architecture that respects nature while providing functional and aesthetic value. Explore the project's presentation for comprehensive insights into its architectural ideas and design outcomes.

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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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