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Curved Concrete Canopy Embracing Recycled Wood in a Serene Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Katarina Milos, Jacob Ragetli
Curved Concrete Canopy Embracing Recycled Wood in a Serene Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

A gracefully curved concrete canopy shelters a harmonious blend of recycled wood and expansive glass façades, creating an immersive wellness retreat that seamlessly connects visitors with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facility's curved concrete canopy creates natural shade and integrates with the landscape's contours.
02
Incorporation of recycled board and batten cladding showcases a commitment to sustainability.
03
Treatment rooms are intentionally oriented to maximize views of the surrounding environment.
04
A natural water collection system is designed to enhance environmental efficiency.
05
Dimensional lumber elements add warmth to the modern aesthetic of the retreat.
The Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural project that captures the essence of a wellness retreat designed to harmoniously integrate with its natural surroundings. This facility serves a vital role in promoting relaxation and healing, offering a sanctuary where visitors can disconnect from their daily stresses and reconnect with nature.

The architectural concept incentivizes a deep relationship between the indoor environments and the outdoor landscape, with an emphasis on maximizing natural light and views. This is accomplished through expansive glass facades that open the interior spaces to the vibrant scenery, blurring the lines between architecture and nature. As users move through the space, they experience a fluid transition from the busy world outside to the serene ambiance of the spa.

Functionally, the Blue Clay Country Spa operates as a multi-faceted wellness center, housing various treatment rooms, relaxation lounges, and communal spaces designed for social interaction and quiet reflection. Each area is purposefully designed to facilitate different experiences, catering to individual needs while fostering a collective sense of peace. The strategic layout allows for a seamless flow between spaces, creating an inviting environment that encourages visitors to engage with all the amenities offered.

The project is characterized by a thoughtful selection of materials that align with its sustainable philosophy. Concrete serves as the primary structure, providing stability and longevity, while dimensional lumber introduces warmth and a tactile quality to the interiors. The incorporation of recycled board and batten for the exterior facade reflects an eco-conscious approach, further enhancing the building's connection to the natural environment. The use of in-situ poured concrete allows for greater flexibility in design, facilitating more fluid and organic forms that mimic the gentle contours of the landscape.

One of the more distinctive design features of the Blue Clay Country Spa is its roofline, which consists of gently curving forms that harmonize with the topography. This design not only shelters the spaces beneath but also serves as a visual representation of the surrounding hills and valleys, enhancing the project's contextual sensitivity. The creation of semi-outdoor spaces, such as hot springs and lounges, ensures that visitors can immerse themselves in the landscape while enjoying the comforts of the spa environment.

Sustainability remains a key component throughout the design process, as the architecture employs thoughtful strategies such as passive solar design and natural water management systems. The building’s orientation and material choices are made to optimize energy efficiency, with careful consideration given to daylighting to reduce reliance on artificial lighting.

The Blue Clay Country Spa exemplifies a contemporary approach to wellness architecture by prioritizing user experience and environmental responsibility. It serves not just as a facility for relaxation but as a space that cultivates a deeper connection with the surrounding natural world. Its seamless integration of architecture and landscape invites visitors to experience the calming influences of nature while indulging in the rejuvenating services offered.

For those interested in exploring the nuances of architectural design, examining the architectural plans, sections, and detailed drawings associated with the Blue Clay Country Spa will provide additional insights into the project's innovative ideas, spatial strategies, and material selections. Engaging with these elements will deepen one's understanding of how architecture can contribute to wellness and harmony within the environment.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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