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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.

## Overview

Located in Latvia, the Blue Clay Spa exemplifies a contemporary architectural approach that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. Designed as a retreat, the project emphasizes local resources and cultural contexts, aiming to provide an immersive experience that fosters a connection between visitors and the landscape. A commitment to eco-tourism and sustainability is embedded in the project’s framework.

## Spatial Interaction and Design Adaptation

The design reflects a profound relationship between the built environment and its geographical context. A curvilinear form adapts to the natural topography, capturing the essence of flowing water and organic forms. This sinuous shape not only enhances visual appeal but also facilitates varied spatial experiences, encouraging exploration of the spa's diverse offerings. Defined pathways guide visitors through distinct environments, from serene garden areas to dynamic communal spaces, ensuring intuitive circulation while preserving the site’s natural beauty.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Sustainability is central to the construction strategy, with a focus on utilizing local materials to reduce environmental impact. Key materials include Bahareque, which combines wood and clay for effective thermal insulation, and locally sourced blue clay, which serves both aesthetic and functional purposes in the building's facade. Glass elements are strategically incorporated to create transparent zones, bridging indoor and outdoor spaces. Additionally, green roofs and landscaped gardens promote biodiversity, while wood elements provide warmth and structural integrity, collectively reinforcing the spa's commitment to ecological harmony.

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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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