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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enveloping a Self-Built Community Retreat

Authors:
Karolina Štreimikytė, Viktorija Rimkutė, Brolis Timber
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enveloping a Self-Built Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels and designed through community collaboration, the architectural endeavor integrates into the landscape as a self-built retreat dedicated to wellness and environmental harmony.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and environmental integration.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and views.
04
Encourages community involvement in both construction and ongoing operations.
05
Integrates a wildflower garden to promote local biodiversity and aesthetics.
The D.I.Y. Country Spa is an architectural project designed for a rural setting, emphasizing sustainability, community involvement, and wellness. This facility serves as a retreat and wellness center, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape to create a tranquil environment. The architectural design focuses on user participation in the construction and ongoing maintenance of the spa, fostering a sense of ownership and connection to the natural surroundings.

Community-Centric Design Approach

One defining feature of the D.I.Y. Country Spa is its community-centric design approach. The architecture encourages participation from local residents, allowing them to engage in both the building process and the operation of the spa. This participative model enhances social bonds within the community and instills a sense of pride among users. The layout of the spa incorporates various interconnected spaces, including bathhouses, saunas, and communal gathering areas, all designed to promote interaction and shared experiences. The placement of these facilities takes advantage of the site’s natural topography, integrating them with outdoor spaces where activities can be organized.

Sustainable Material Choices

Sustainable material choices play a significant role in the D.I.Y. Country Spa's design. The primary materials include locally sourced wood, clay, and stone. These materials not only reduce the environmental impact associated with transportation but also establish a direct link between the architecture and its regional context. The use of wood creates a warm atmosphere, while clay is utilized for constructing durable thermal mass walls that regulate interior temperatures effectively. Stone serves as a natural paving material, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance. Additionally, incorporating hay and grass in the design fosters sustainable practices, such as green roofing, which enhances insulation and biodiversity.

Further examination of the architectural plans reveals a thoughtful arrangement of spaces that cater to diverse user needs. Seasonal flexibility is inherent in the design, allowing areas to adapt for various activities throughout the year. This multifunctional approach to space is a significant architectural concept that aligns with contemporary trends in environmental stewardship and social engagement.

For a comprehensive understanding of the D.I.Y. Country Spa project, including detailed architectural sections and design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more insights into its architectural ideas and innovative design strategies.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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