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

Authors:
Mawari Andres NuÑez Flores, Fernando Enrique Henriquez Regalado
Circular Facade of Reflective Metal and Laminated Timber Creates a Tranquil Spa Experience

Project in-detail

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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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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