Get inspired!

17,495 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Design of Bahareque and Blue Clay Offers Sustainable Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Canyi Huang, Catalina Herrera, William Acevedo, Andres Mantilla
Curvilinear Design of Bahareque and Blue Clay Offers Sustainable Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing the regionally sourced Bahareque and blue clay, the design's curvilinear form integrates seamlessly with the landscape to create a wellness retreat that promotes relaxation and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced Bahareque for sustainable construction and thermal insulation.
02
Incorporates blue clay in the facade for aesthetic appeal and natural climate regulation.
03
Features a curvilinear form that mimics the surrounding landscape for seamless integration.
04
Includes extensive glass surfaces to enhance natural light and views of the environment.
05
Employs green roofs to support biodiversity and enhance ecological sustainability.
The Blue Clay Spa project is an architectural endeavor located in Latvia, designed to promote wellness and relaxation while maintaining harmony with the natural environment. This facility serves as a retreat, offering a variety of therapeutic and recreational services. The design emphasizes sustainability, integrating local materials and techniques to create a cohesive relationship between the built form and its surroundings.

The Blue Clay Spa utilizes a curvilinear design that echoes the natural topography of the site. This approach allows the structure to blend seamlessly into the landscape, minimizing its visual impact while enhancing the user experience. The layout encourages exploration and interaction with nature, providing spaces that invite visitors to engage with both indoor and outdoor environments.

Architectural Integration of Local Materials and Techniques

One of the distinguishing features of the Blue Clay Spa is its use of local materials, prominently including Bahareque and blue clay. Bahareque, a traditional building method utilizing wood and earth, enhances the thermal performance of the building while respecting local construction practices. Blue clay is incorporated into the facade, adding aesthetic value while providing natural insulation. This focus on local materiality not only supports sustainability but also fosters a connection to Latvian culture.

The architectural design incorporates large glass surfaces that facilitate transparency, allowing daylight to penetrate the interior spaces while offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The integration of green roofs also contributes to local biodiversity, promoting ecological balance while enhancing the overall aesthetic. These elements showcase how architecture can respond to environmental conditions and improve energy efficiency.

Spatial Organization and User Experience

The spatial organization of the Blue Clay Spa is carefully planned to create a fluid experience for users. The layout encourages movement through various areas, including thermal therapy rooms, saunas, and relaxation lounges. Each space is designed to engage the senses, with materials selected for their tactile qualities and visual appeal. The strategic placement of pathways and open areas fosters connectivity, allowing users to transition smoothly between environments.

Additionally, the incorporation of landscaped gardens and water features enhances the therapeutic experience, providing natural soundscapes and visual stimuli that contribute to relaxation and well-being. The use of curvilinear forms not only promotes aesthetic continuity but also influences how users perceive and navigate the space.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and design details of the Blue Clay Spa to understand the thoughtful integration of site and structure. Examining these elements will offer deeper insights into the innovative approaches employed in this project, illustrating the careful consideration of space, material, and experience throughout the design process.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,495 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy