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Holistic Retreat Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Integrated Natural Landscapes

Authors:
Teik Rong Khoo, Katie Chun Yan Tan
Holistic Retreat Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Integrated Natural Landscapes
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Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels define a sustainable retreat that harmonizes with Kureme's landscape, fostering wellness through its thoughtful design and integration of natural elements.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a unique texture and aesthetic.
02
The use of cross-laminated timber panels allows for rapid construction and reduced environmental impact.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space and improves structural stability.
04
Native vegetation is integrated into the landscaping to support local biodiversity.
05
An on-site vegetable garden promotes self-sustainability and farm-to-table dining experiences.

### Project Overview
Located in the natural landscape of Kureme, Western Latvia, the Village Spa is designed to integrate with its surroundings while promoting sustainability and wellness. The architectural intent is to create a holistic retreat that features various facilities set against the backdrop of the region's natural beauty.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout comprises distinct program areas, including a spa, dining hall, and guest accommodations, thoughtfully arranged to preserve existing trees and landforms. The spa focuses on holistic wellness, utilizing ample glazing to enhance indoor-outdoor connectivity and to provide an immersive experience within the landscape. The dining hall is designed with an open-plan concept, strategically positioned to offer views of a nearby pond and foster a cohesive dining atmosphere. Guest quarters prioritize comfort, featuring both private and communal spaces that encourage interaction among visitors.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
A commitment to sustainability informs the choice of materials used throughout the project. Wood is primarily employed for its aesthetic warmth and structural versatility, while glass facades facilitate natural light and a connection to the exterior environment. Metal is utilized in roofing for durability, and stone elements are incorporated into pathways and landscape features to reinforce the relationship with the surrounding nature. Additionally, onsite facilities, such as a vegetable garden and farm barn, enhance self-sufficiency and support educational initiatives regarding sustainable practices, fostering an understanding of the local ecosystem.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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