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Circular Baths and Cross-Laminated Timber Framing in a Harmonious Landscape Integration

Authors:
Valentina Elena Stan, Monica - Gabriela Motea
Circular Baths and Cross-Laminated Timber Framing in a Harmonious Landscape Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed with circular therapy baths and cross-laminated timber, the design achieves a seamless integration with the surrounding landscape while offering wellness-focused guest accommodations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular therapy baths designed to enhance natural light and soothing acoustics.
02
Use of cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and aesthetic warmth.
03
Charred wooden shingles applied for durability and fire resistance, while achieving a rustic appearance.
04
Strategic landscaping incorporating native flora to promote local biodiversity.
05
Bent A-frame design to create dynamic spatial experiences and visual interest.

### Project Overview

Located within a thoughtfully chosen landscape, the design incorporates guest houses, therapy baths, and a primary residence, aiming to enhance the living experience while prioritizing sustainability and local cultural references. The architecture merges contemporary design language with elements inspired by traditional structures, particularly bathhouses, creating an environment that respects and mirrors the surrounding natural context.

### Spatial Organization and Layout

The layout is organized around distinct buildings, each strategically positioned to optimize views and accessibility, with a pronounced emphasis on the integration of water features to evoke tranquility. Landscaped elements accompany different amenities, ensuring a cohesive flow throughout the site. The arrangement not only highlights accessibility but also encourages interaction among users, fostering a community atmosphere.

### Material and Design Choices

The project employs a selection of materials that balance aesthetic appeal with sustainability:

- **Wood** is utilized for structural framing and facade elements, offering warmth and a tactile connection to nature.
- **Concrete** is chosen for its durability and modern aesthetic, particularly in the therapy baths, where textured finishes enhance sensory experiences.
- **Glass** features prominently in expansive openings, promoting natural light and ventilation while blurring the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces.
- **Green Roof Systems** are implemented across various buildings to support biodiversity and improve energy efficiency.
- **Natural Stones** are integrated into landscaping pathways, enriching the connection between the architecture and its environment.

### Therapeutic Focus and User Experience

Distinct spaces are dedicated to individual and communal activities, each designed with specific functions in mind:

1. **Guest Houses** are characterized by minimalist wooden frameworks and green roofs, oriented to maximize scenic views of the surrounding water bodies. The interiors feature light finishes and strategically organized furnishings to create inviting and open environments.

2. **Therapy Baths** are designed as circular sanctuaries that prioritize relaxation, featuring large basins and textured walls that enhance both reflection and natural lighting. The addition of greenery and water elements supports a calming ambiance in accordance with biophilic design principles.

3. **Common Areas** encourage social interaction through flexible seating arrangements and open layouts, facilitating a sense of community while allowing for private moments when desired.

The project distinguishes itself through a blend of traditional and contemporary architecture, a commitment to sustainable building practices, and a holistic approach to well-being, encapsulating a thoughtful integration of lived experience and environmental consciousness.

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

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Competition organisers

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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