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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.
The Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural project located in Latvia, designed to create a sanctuary that connects wellness with nature. The project emphasizes the use of natural materials and integration with the surrounding landscape, focusing on sustainable design principles and providing a tranquil retreat for visitors. The spa includes various facilities aimed at promoting relaxation and rejuvenation, ensuring a holistic experience for its users.

Sustainable Design Approaches
One notable aspect of the Blue Clay Country Spa is its commitment to sustainability. The project takes advantage of renewable energy sources through the installation of solar panels on the roof, reducing its environmental footprint. The design incorporates natural ventilation systems that promote airflow, minimizing reliance on mechanical climate control. Additionally, the building's positioning on stilts limits disruption to the natural site, allowing for the preservation of local flora and fauna. This approach reflects a broader trend in architecture aimed at harmonizing built environments with the natural world.

Materiality and Aesthetic Integration
The choice of materials is integral to the spa's design. Laminated wood is utilized extensively, providing warmth and a natural aesthetic that resonates with the wooded surroundings. Large glass panels enhance transparency, allowing ample natural light to enter the interior spaces and offering views of the landscape. Reinforced concrete is used strategically to ensure structural integrity while remaining unobtrusive. The subdued color palette, characterized by neutral tones, fosters a calming atmosphere, aligning with the spa's wellness objectives.

Functional Layout and Facilities
The Blue Clay Country Spa's layout is carefully organized to facilitate a comprehensive wellness experience. Key areas include treatment rooms for massages and therapies, sauna facilities, and relaxation zones designed for individual and group use. The communal dining area is designed to encourage social interaction, featuring panoramic views of the exterior environment. Separate guest houses provide privacy yet maintain a cohesive architectural style with the main structure.

The architectural design prioritizes both form and function, resulting in optimized circulation and accessibility throughout the spa. Each facility is designed to support the primary focus of wellness, ensuring that guests can seamlessly transition between spaces.

For further insights into the Blue Clay Country Spa project, including architectural plans and sections, explore the detailed project presentation to understand the intricacies of the design and its implementation. This exploration will reveal architectural details and ideas that contribute to the overall narrative of this thoughtfully designed wellness retreat.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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