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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.
The Blue Clay Country Spa is a thoughtfully designed architectural project situated in a wooded landscape. It aims to provide a tranquil retreat focused on wellness, integrating seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The architecture captures the essence of a minimalist aesthetic while ensuring functional spaces for relaxation, treatment, and social interaction.

This project represents a synergy between human activity and the environment, prioritizing sustainability and ecological sensitivity. The design features a rectangular form that mirrors the natural contours of the site, creating a harmonious relationship with the landscape. The primary function of the spa includes private treatment areas, communal spaces, and facilities for wellness programs.

Emphasizing a connection to nature, the project integrates existing oak trees into its layout and utilizes materials that reflect the natural environment. This enhances the user experience, fostering a sense of calm and well-being.

Material Selection and Integration
The materials selected for the Blue Clay Country Spa serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Cast-in-place concrete forms the primary structure, chosen for its durability and thermal performance. The use of concrete is complemented by timber cladding, which adds warmth and texture to the exterior and interior spaces. The design also incorporates extensive glazing, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors while framing views of the surrounding landscape. This careful selection of materials contributes to the project’s sustainability goals and enhances user comfort.

Unique Design Approaches
The Blue Clay Country Spa distinguishes itself through its innovative integration with the landscape. Rather than imposing upon the natural environment, the design respects and enhances it by preserving significant trees and allowing them to inform site circulation and layout. The application of a radial grid in organization promotes intuitive navigation, creating fluid transitions between the indoor and outdoor environments.

The project employs a dynamic spatial arrangement that fosters both privacy and community. By clustering individual treatment areas and social spaces, users can enjoy solitude or engage with others as preferred. The incorporation of roof terraces allows for outdoor relaxation and connections to the scenery.

These unique design approaches highlight the project’s commitment to environmental sensitivity, wellness, and user experience. Professionals interested in the intricacies of the design are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and overall ideas presented in the project to gain deeper insights. The Blue Clay Country Spa stands as a relevant case study for contemporary architectural practices focused on sustainability and the integration of wellness within the built environment.
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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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