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Laminated Wood Structure Elevates Wellness Experience Within Natural Landscape

Author:
Mads Holm Jacobsen
Laminated Wood Structure Elevates Wellness Experience Within Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted with laminated wood and integrated solar panels, the spa harmonizes with its natural surroundings to provide a dedicated space for wellness and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and views.
04
Sustainable energy generation through strategically placed solar panels.
05
Elevated design minimizes site disruption and preserves natural surroundings.

### Overview

Located in a lush natural setting near a tranquil body of water in Latvia, the Blue Clay Country Spa aims to create an environment that harmonizes wellness with the surrounding landscape. The design prioritizes an ecological approach, emphasizing the integration of natural elements such as water and greenery into the overall experience. This initiative reflects a commitment to sustainability, aiming to provide a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation while minimizing ecological impact.

### Architectural Form and Materiality

The spa features a modular structure characterized by horizontal lines and open spaces that facilitate unobstructed views of the landscape. The roofing design appears elevated above the walls, contributing to a sense of lightness while reinforcing the building's connection with the environment. The primary materials used include laminated wood, which establishes a warm aesthetic consistent with the nearby forest, and large glass panels that invite natural light and frame scenic vistas. Reinforced concrete is utilized discreetly in the foundation to provide stability without compromising the aesthetic appeal.

### Functionality and Sustainability

The spatial organization includes dedicated areas for wellness treatments, social interaction, and private accommodation. The wellness area consists of treatment rooms, saunas, and relaxation zones tailored to individual needs, while the lobby and dining spaces encourage community engagement and offer panoramic views. Each guest house is designed for privacy but maintains continuity with the main facility. An emphasis on sustainability is evident through the incorporation of solar panels for energy generation and natural ventilation systems, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling. Furthermore, the building is elevated on stilts, minimizing disruption to the natural landscape and promoting ecological sensitivity during construction.

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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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