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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Cladding Defining a Nature-Integrated Retreat

Authors:
Samuel Kwan Yew Mok, Adhika Pranawahadi, Chia Ching Lee, Jincheng Jiang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Cladding Defining a Nature-Integrated Retreat

Project in-detail

Emphasizing the use of natural materials like charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this retreat harmonizes with its Latvian landscape while functioning as a wellness spa dedicated to rejuvenation and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide superior thermal insulation and structural integrity.
03
Design includes a central reflection pond to foster a tranquil environment and promote mindfulness.
04
Integrates a sustainable water collection system that supports both the building's needs and adjacent agricultural areas.
05
Emphasizes passive solar design to maximize natural light and minimize energy consumption throughout the year.
The Blue Clay Country Spa in Latvia is a thoughtful architectural project designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings while providing a comprehensive wellness experience. This project emphasizes the importance of reconnecting individuals with nature, offering spaces that promote relaxation and health. The architecture serves not only as a functional component of the site but as a medium for embodying the serene qualities of the environment.

At its core, the Blue Clay Country Spa represents a modern approach to wellness-oriented living, integrating both hospitality and sustainability. The project consists of several key elements: a guest house, therapy rooms, a staff residence, a storage pavilion, and a farm area. Each of these components is designed with careful consideration to ensure that they contribute to the overall vision of creating a tranquil retreat.

Functionally, the guest house provides accommodation with various amenities that make it suitable for leisure and recuperation. It incorporates an open floor plan that allows for fluid movement between spaces, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Natural light floods the interior, enhancing the overall sense of comfort and well-being. Adjacent to the guest facilities are the therapy rooms, devoted to health and relaxation practices. Designed as sanctuaries for individual wellness, these spaces foster a sense of peace and privacy, further supported by their views of the calming landscape outdoors.

The staff residence focuses on maintaining a balance between work and personal life, providing necessities that ensure convenience and comfort. Thoughtful design ensures that staff members feel connected to the facility's mission while living on-site. Additionally, the storage pavilion serves practical needs, housing equipment and supplies necessary for the operations of the spa and farm.

Sustainability is a guiding principle of this architectural project, highlighted by the careful selection of materials and the design of water management systems. Prefabricated lightweight timber and insulated panels ensure thermal efficiency, while natural resources are utilized thoughtfully to enhance the ecological integrity of the site. The inclusion of a pond for water collection not only addresses environmental concerns but also augments the serene landscape, inviting contemplation and quietude.

A unique aspect of this project is its engagement with local agricultural practices. The farm area supports the spa by providing fresh produce, promoting an ethos of sustainability, and educating guests about responsible land use. This thoughtful integration emphasizes the connection between wellness practices and the natural environment, reinforcing the intent of the spa as a retreat for holistic health.

The architectural design embodies a minimalist aesthetic that draws inspiration from traditional Latvian forms while incorporating modern sensibilities. The arrangement of buildings around a central reflection pond creates an inviting focal point, encouraging visitors to engage with nature continually. Pathways are designed to lead guests through the landscape, fostering exploration and interaction with the outdoors, reinforcing the connection between the built and natural environments.

The Blue Clay Country Spa stands as a testament to the notion of architecture as a facilitator of well-being. By prioritizing a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape, the project underscores the importance of mindful design in contemporary architecture. The seamless integration of various functional elements, coupled with an emphasis on sustainability, creates a space where visitors can rejuvenate and reconnect with themselves and nature.

For those interested in exploring deeper insights into the Blue Clay Country Spa, examining the architectural plans and sections can further illuminate the innovative design ideas that underpin this project. Engaging with these elements will provide a more comprehensive understanding of how architecture can shape our experiences and foster a greater sense of connection to the environment.
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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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