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Introspective Spaces with Stone Walls and Hot Tub Along a Serene Pond

Authors:
Cass Smith, Taylor Lawson
Introspective Spaces with Stone Walls and Hot Tub Along a Serene Pond

Project in-detail

A hot tub within an introspective space and crafted stone walls enhance the connection to nature in a retreat designed for relaxation and personal reflection by a serene pond.
5 key facts about this project
01
Introspective spaces enhance visitor engagement with the surrounding landscape.
02
The Reflection Room incorporates a hot tub for personal relaxation.
03
Stone walls create a natural boundary and blend with the environment.
04
Private areas are positioned to maximize morning light exposure.
05
Pathways connect structures to facilitate seamless movement throughout the retreat.

The Reflection Retreat at Blue Clay Country Spa is a well-crafted design that connects the built environment to the natural surroundings. Located near a peaceful pond, the retreat aims to provide a space for relaxation and personal reflection. It consists of two connected structures that allow movement between public and private areas, promoting a sense of calm and introspection among visitors.

Spatial Organization

The first structure serves as the main service area for staff and guests. It includes a reception space that welcomes visitors upon their arrival. From this building, a path leads to the second structure, creating a journey towards areas dedicated to quiet contemplation. The layout is organized in a linear fashion, facilitating easy navigation and interaction.



Functional Spaces

Inside the main building, areas for public and private use are arranged along a thicker service wall. This design choice effectively separates service functions from guest spaces. Essential facilities such as therapy rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas are designed for comfort and privacy. Meanwhile, staff areas are positioned to support efficient operation and service delivery. The thoughtful arrangement helps balance personal time and social engagement.



Landscape Engagement

The design prioritizes a connection with the landscape. Many spaces are oriented to provide views of the surrounding environment. The central introspective area invites visitors to engage with nature, while the Reflection Room features a hot tub, creating a dedicated spot for relaxation. This focus on integrating indoor and outdoor experiences fosters a sense of peace and well-being.



Visual Integration

Illustrations of the retreat reveal how the buildings relate to their environment, with proportions and shapes that blend with the landscape. The exteriors align well with the natural setting, reinforcing an overall connection to the pond. Floor plans offer insights into how the spaces relate to one another, ensuring that each area contributes to a harmonious atmosphere.

In the Reflection Room, a carefully placed window opens up to a view of the pond, allowing natural light to fill the space and inviting guests to immerse themselves in the calming scenery, enhancing the retreat’s aim of tranquility and relaxation.

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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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