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Curved Structures with Reversed Facade and Elevated Concrete Stilts in a Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Katarina Milos, Jacob Ragetli
Curved Structures with Reversed Facade and Elevated Concrete Stilts in a Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Elevated on concrete stilts, the wellness retreat's unique curved structures and reversed facade integrate seamlessly with the landscape while utilizing sustainable materials to enhance the restorative experience for guests.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on concrete stilts to minimize ground disturbance.
02
Features a unique reversed facade constructed from charred wooden shingles.
03
Curved structures designed to mimic the natural landscape contours.
04
Extensive use of operable glazing enhances natural ventilation and views.
05
Incorporates sustainable water management with an on-site cistern system.

### Project Overview

Blue Clay Country Spa is situated in a landscape characterized by gentle mountains and tranquil water bodies, designed to serve as a retreat focused on relaxation and rejuvenation. The project prioritizes sustainability and aims to foster a deep connection with its natural environment through thoughtful architectural integration.

### Spatial Configuration and Design Elements

The architectural approach encompasses two primary structures: a main spa facility and an accompanying guest house. Both buildings feature organic forms that resonate with the surrounding terrain, fostering a sense of harmony. Curved roofs and facades create an ambiance of fluidity, while elevated concrete stilts minimize disruption to the site and enhance views of the landscape. The extensive use of glass throughout the main building facilitates transparency, enabling natural light to permeate interior spaces and creating visual continuity with the outdoors.

Interior spaces within the spa are designed to promote well-being and relaxation, utilizing muted color palettes and natural materials. The spa’s layout includes treatment areas, bathing facilities, and communal relaxation zones, strategically positioned to optimize natural light and views. Guest rooms in the secondary building provide privacy and comfort, featuring large windows that frame the serene landscape, ensuring an immersive natural experience.

### Sustainability Integration

The project incorporates various sustainable features that reinforce its environmental commitment. Careful solar orientation maximizes heat gain in winter while minimizing exposure in summer. The use of thermal mass within walls contributes to energy efficiency through temperature regulation. Additionally, an on-site cistern for water collection and bio-filters for landscape maintenance exemplify responsible water management practices. These elements collectively emphasize a design ethos that not only respects but enhances the natural context.

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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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