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Circular Lake Retreat with Smart Glass and Natural Materials

Author:
Eugene Shulyat'ev
Circular Lake Retreat with Smart Glass and Natural Materials

Project in-detail

Smart glass integrates seamlessly with natural materials around a central circular lake, creating a wellness-focused spa retreat designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Smart glass technology dynamically adjusts visibility and thermal comfort throughout the spa.
02
The design incorporates a central circular lake that enhances water features and natural light.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while ensuring sustainable material use.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer a distinctive weather-resistant and aesthetic finish.
05
Multifunctional spaces are tailored for various wellness activities, promoting versatility.

### Overview
The Blue Clay Country Spa is situated in a tranquil natural environment, designed to integrate deeply with the surrounding landscape. The project is informed by the philosophical framework of the "Five Elements," which incorporates Terra (Earth), Air, Water, Fire, and the human experience. This integration aims to enhance user well-being and create a holistic spa experience.

### Spatial Arrangement and Functionality
The design features distinct functional zones, including the Spa Compound, Guest House, and Staff Accommodation, each tailored to support specific activities while maintaining aesthetic cohesion. The layout is optimized to follow the natural contours of the land, minimizing ecological disruption and enhancing the user experience through terraced gardens and outdoor shaded areas. This arrangement facilitates interaction with nature and provides a variety of spaces for both relaxation and social engagement.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Materials selected for construction reflect a commitment to sustainability and durability. Expansive glass elements allow ample natural light and offer panoramic views, fostering a connection between occupants and their environment. The use of concrete provides structural integrity, while aluminum contributes to a lightweight yet robust framework. Additional features, such as solar panels and a closed water cycle system, further emphasize energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. The project also incorporates flexible design elements that can adapt to seasonal changes, improving overall functionality and comfort.

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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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