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Circular Facade of Reflective Metal and Laminated Timber Creates a Tranquil Spa Experience

Circular Facade of Reflective Metal and Laminated Timber Creates a Tranquil Spa Experience
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Circular windows of reflective metal and sustainably sourced laminated timber invite natural light into a wellness retreat designed for relaxation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular windows optimize views while ensuring privacy within the public spa areas.
02
Sustainably sourced laminated timber panels provide structural support and aesthetic warmth.
03
Charred wooden shingles create a durable, low-maintenance exterior that enhances weather resistance.
04
An exterior ramp of unreinforced concrete minimizes environmental impact while maintaining access.
05
Terraced spaces encourage interaction with the landscape, blending indoor and outdoor experiences.

## Context and Concept

EYE SPA is located in a picturesque setting that enhances user engagement with the surrounding environment. The design employs a circular motif, creating a physical and visual connection to the landscape. This approach fosters interactions between the interior spaces and the exterior, encouraging visitors to experience the natural beauty from various vantage points within the structure.

### Design Philosophy

The design philosophy emphasizes transparency and integration with the natural surroundings. Circular window arrangements serve as focal points, optimizing views while inviting natural light into the interior. The layout promotes a dynamic flow through various spaces, enhancing visitor movement and exploration. Large glass panels contribute to a calming atmosphere, supporting the overall intent of wellness and relaxation.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

Organized with both communal and private spaces, the layout caters to a range of visitor experiences. The ground floor features a central entry that directs guests to diverse amenities, including an onsite bar complemented by informal seating designed for social interactions. Adjacent access to spa facilities facilitates a fluid transition between leisure activities and wellness services.

The design maximizes natural light in lower-level spa areas, which include treatment rooms, showers, and lockers. Above these facilities, a unique structural arrangement offers expansive views of the landscape through strategically placed glazing and terraced spaces.

## Materiality

The material choices in EYE SPA prioritize both aesthetic appeal and functionality, contributing to the overall architectural narrative.

- **Concrete**: Unreinforced concrete forms the base of the exterior ramp, offering a minimalist aesthetic while supporting sustainable construction practices.

- **Laminated Wood**: The central volume utilizes laminated wood, providing warmth and tactile qualities, coupled with wooden trusses that enhance architectural character.

- **Metal Panels**: The upper spa area is clad in mirror-finished metal panels, amplifying light reflection and spatial perception.

- **Glass**: Extensive glazing links the interior with external views and supports natural ventilation.

- **Insulation**: High-performance insulation materials maintain comfortable internal temperatures while minimizing energy consumption.

This thoughtful selection reflects an emphasis on sustainable design integrated with contemporary aesthetics.

## Construction Techniques

EYE SPA incorporates low-impact construction methods that align with sustainable design principles. Notable techniques include:

1. **Exterior Ramp**: Constructed using innovative techniques that ensure structural stability without excessive material use.

2. **Sustainable Sourcing**: Wood utilized within the project is sourced sustainably, contributing to an overall reduction in the environmental footprint.

3. **Low-Energy Systems**: The building integrates energy-efficient systems designed to reduce operational costs.

These construction practices demonstrate a commitment to ecological sustainability while showcasing contemporary architectural responsibility.

### Unique Features

- **Circular Windows**: Designed to optimize views of the landscape, these features enhance the building's connection to nature.

- **Crater Concept**: Serving as both a focal point for social interaction and functional space, this design element enhances the visitor experience.

- **Terraced Areas**: These spaces provide opportunities for relaxation and contemplation, inviting users to engage with the natural surroundings.

At night, the illuminated structure creates a striking visual against the backdrop of the night sky, particularly enhancing its presence during unique phenomena such as the Northern Lights. The careful design considerations throughout EYE SPA highlight a balance of functionality, aesthetic appeal, and a deep respect for the environmental context.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

`
Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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