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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation in a Wellness Retreat Set Against a Scenic Pond

Authors:
Rahul Lawhare, Priyanka Mahajan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation in a Wellness Retreat Set Against a Scenic Pond

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and natural ventilation, the design integrates seamlessly with its picturesque setting to create a wellness retreat focused on enhancing well-being and ecological sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to maximize interior space while reducing material use.
04
Features extensive natural ventilation to promote air quality and energy efficiency.
05
Integrates a community garden to support local food production and eco-awareness.
The Blue Clay Country Spa project showcases a carefully considered architectural design that harmonizes with the natural landscape. Located near a tranquil water body, the project is crafted to promote well-being through an immersive relationship with the environment. The architecture emphasizes sustainability and community engagement, focusing on both individual wellness and the ecological responsibility of the structure.

Project Functions and Zoning

The design of Blue Clay Country Spa functions effectively within a defined zoning strategy that enhances its usability and experience. The site is organized into distinct areas: Therapy, Residential, and Recreational. Each zone is purposefully designed to serve specific functions while facilitating interaction with the natural environment. Therapy spaces are equipped with large windows that maximize views and natural light, creating peaceful and restorative areas. The residential modules provide comfortable accommodations, blending privacy with communal access to shared amenities. Recreational facilities include an outdoor amphitheater and gardens, which invite social interaction and encourage engagement with nature.

Materiality and Construction Techniques

A notable aspect of the project is its careful selection of materials that align with its sustainability goals. The primary materials used include stone, wood, glass, gravel, and steel. Stone is employed for its thermal mass properties, benefiting temperature regulation within the structures. Wood is utilized throughout for its natural aesthetic and warmth, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Large glass panels allow for natural light to penetrate deep into spaces, further enhancing the connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape. Gravel serves functional purposes, aiding in water drainage and pedestrian pathways, while steel provides structural integrity and safety.

Sustainability Features and Design Innovations

What differentiates Blue Clay Country Spa from other similar projects is its comprehensive approach to sustainability and design innovation. The integration of renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels and wind turbines, underscores the project’s commitment to energy efficiency. Rainwater harvesting systems are incorporated into the design to minimize resource consumption. The architecture utilizes passive cooling techniques, including strategic overhangs and natural ventilation, to maintain comfortable indoor climates. Additionally, the emphasis on seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces creates an immersive experience that enhances visitor engagement with the environment.

For more in-depth insights into the Blue Clay Country Spa project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, we encourage readers to explore the project presentation. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the architectural strategy, spatial organization, and sustainable practices that define this unique development.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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