5 key facts about this project
The Blue Clay Country Spa is located in a calm wooded area of Latvia, designed to focus on wellness by using the natural benefits of blue clay. This countryside guest house combines health treatments with a deep connection to nature. The design concept highlights relaxation and rejuvenation, inviting guests to experience both comfort and the surrounding environment.
Functional Zoning
The layout divides the spa into distinct functional areas, including an Arrival section, an Activity zone, a Relaxation zone, and a Garden. Each zone is carefully placed to maximize visitor experience and interaction with nature. The Arrival area connects to an existing forest road, leading visitors to a landscaped car park and paths that wind through greenery. The Activity zone features outdoor play equipment, shaded areas with hammocks, and peaceful spots near a central pond, encouraging guests to engage with the natural surroundings.
Architectural Cohesion
A key feature of the design is a continuous roof that links the four building areas. This roof not only serves practical purposes but also creates visual harmony with the surrounding oak trees, allowing the structure to blend quietly into the landscape. The use of horizontal lines across the façades draws inspiration from traditional Latvian architecture, adapting these elements to meet the needs of modern wellness facilities while respecting the existing environment.
Environmental Strategies
Sustainability plays an important role in the spa's design. The facility incorporates efficient water management systems, including rainwater harvesting and treatment processes for recycling. Water for everyday use comes from a geodesic drill, while geothermal energy provides warmth for the spa. Climate control is achieved through a closed-loop surface water heat pump that provides heating and cooling. Windows that open allow for cross-ventilation, improving air quality and comfort year-round.
Materials and Finishes
Careful attention has been given to material choices, focusing on durability and local relevance. Dark, moisture-resistant thermo-wood is used for the siding and roofing, ensuring the structure remains resilient against local weather. This choice of material enhances the visual appeal while supporting the commitment to sustainability, showing a thoughtful use of local resources.
The design emphasizes a connection to both health and nature, with paths that lead visitors through shaded oaks to calming water features and relaxing areas. In this inviting atmosphere, guests can unwind fully, immersed in both the architecture and environment around them.