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Curvilinear Design Utilizing Cast-in-Place Concrete and Natural Oak Within a Tranquil Wellness Retreat

Authors:
soontak Joo, Seung Joon OH, Sohyun Park, Heejin Kang
Curvilinear Design Utilizing Cast-in-Place Concrete and Natural Oak Within a Tranquil Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing cast-in-place concrete and local oak, this retreat seamlessly integrates curvilinear forms with the landscape, creating a tranquil environment dedicated to wellness and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes existing oak trees as integral elements in site layout.
02
Incorporates extensive glazing for optimal natural light and views.
03
Features a thermally efficient concrete mass to maintain indoor climate.
04
Includes roof terraces that connect indoor spaces to the landscape.
05
Emphasizes curvilinear design to blend architecture with natural contours.

### Overview

Located in a tranquil woodland environment, Blue Clay Country Spa represents a thoughtfully designed facility that integrates architectural form with the natural landscape. The rectangular massing of the building is shaped to harmonize with the site's topography, enhancing both its functional utility and visual coherence within the setting. The intent is to create a retreat that caters to the psychological and physical well-being of its users while respecting the intrinsic qualities of the surrounding ecology.

### Spatial Configuration and Circulation

The spatial organization within Blue Clay Country Spa is carefully crafted to provide a range of experiences. Private retreat areas, such as guest houses and individual therapy spaces, are strategically clustered to ensure privacy and tranquility, complemented by expansive views of the landscape. Communal gathering spaces promote social interaction, while service areas are positioned for operational efficiency without encroaching on guest comfort.

An intuitive circulation strategy guides users through a well-defined flow between indoor and outdoor environments. Utilizing a radial grid concept, pathways enhance accessibility and create opportunities for users to explore different levels of the site, thereby fostering a layered interaction with nature. The use of roof terraces and open areas further facilitates natural ventilation and light management, essential for a wellness-focused environment.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

The material palette for the spa is selected to reflect both durability and aesthetic integration with the landscape. Cast-in-place concrete serves as the primary structural element, offering thermal performance while presenting a raw texture that resonates with the rural context. Complementary wood features, such as cladding and pathways, add warmth and organic character, while large glass openings enhance interior brightness and provide views of the surrounding nature.

Environmental sustainability is paramount in the project, with existing oak trees preserved and incorporated into the site layout. The design emphasizes minimal disruption to the natural landscape while fostering a connection between the building and its ecological surroundings. The inclusion of materials like Blue Clay as decorative or therapeutic elements links the spa experience to the local geography, further enriching the user experience.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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