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Clay Facades and Expansive Glass Windows in a Contemporary Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Ruben Guerreiro, Luisa Vincenzo, Katarzyna Chodzba, Leandro Muñoz
Clay Facades and Expansive Glass Windows in a Contemporary Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

With local clay façades that blend seamlessly into the landscape and expansive glass openings that invite natural light, the design creates a serene environment dedicated to wellness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses locally sourced clay for the façades, enhancing environmental integration.
02
Features expansive glass openings designed to maximize natural light and views of the landscape.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that facilitates efficient structural dynamics and aesthetic appeal.
04
Focuses on biophilic elements, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Employs a thoughtful arrangement of pathways that encourage exploration and connectivity throughout the site.
The architectural project "Between Lines" represents a thoughtful integration of built environment and natural landscape, showcasing a balanced relationship between the two. This design is situated in a scenic area, likely characterized by vineyards, allowing the architecture to resonate with its surroundings in a harmonious and functional manner. The essence of the project lies in its ability to embody sustainability, aesthetics, and user experience, reflecting modern architectural principles that prioritize ecology and community engagement.

At its core, "Between Lines" serves multiple functions that cater to both individual and communal needs. The layout features interconnected buildings that are designed to create a cohesive user experience while ensuring privacy and comfort in personal spaces. The project is intended not only for habitation but also aims to be a destination for relaxation, connection, and engagement with nature. This dual focus on functionality and integration is a hallmark of contemporary architectural practice, addressing the needs of users while respecting the environment.

The architectural design is marked by its careful consideration of materiality, using local resources that speak to the regional context. The primary materials include clay, concrete, glass, wood, and stone, each chosen not only for their structural properties but also for their aesthetic qualities that complement the landscape. The use of clay for façades contributes to a warm, earthy palette, while concrete provides sturdiness and a sense of modernity. Extensive glass windows allow for natural light to permeate the interior spaces, enhancing the connection to the outdoors and promoting energy efficiency. The inclusion of wood brings warmth to the interiors, while stone pathways and walls ground the project within its natural setting.

The project features a carefully curated internal layout that emphasizes community and privacy. Key areas such as the reception and communal gathering spots are positioned to welcome guests and promote interactions among users, serving as social hubs. The design also incorporates wellness facilities, such as spas and fitness areas, further enriching the user experience by providing spaces dedicated to relaxation and health. This focus on wellness reflects a broader trend in architecture that prioritizes the mental and physical well-being of occupants.

Circulation throughout the site is designed to follow the natural contours of the land, creating inviting pathways that encourage exploration and connectivity. These pathways accommodate both pedestrians and vehicles while being sensitive to the landscape. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces highlights a commitment to accessibility and ease of movement, making the experience within the project enjoyable and intuitive.

"Between Lines" is compelling in its unique design approaches that emphasize sustainability and the blending of architectural and environmental elements. The project stands out due to its intentional engagement with the local landscape, as the architecture appears to grow organically from the site, promoting an ongoing dialogue between the structures and their natural backdrop. This integration challenges traditional notions of architecture by considering how buildings can coexist with and enhance their surroundings.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural project, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas presented in the project will provide further insight into its conceptual underpinnings and design decisions. The careful balance achieved in "Between Lines" serves as an example of how modern architecture can thoughtfully align with nature, ultimately fostering a space that inspires connection and mindfulness.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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