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Monolithic Structures Enhanced by Natural Clay and Transparent Glass for Wellness Retreats

Authors:
Nicholas Nagawiecki, Tomi Laja
Monolithic Structures Enhanced by Natural Clay and Transparent Glass for Wellness Retreats

Project in-detail

Utilizing natural clay and expansive glass elements within a monolithic structure, the design fosters a seamless connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape, serving as a dedicated wellness retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Monolithic design utilizes natural clay for thermal regulation and aesthetics.
02
Extensive glass walls create unobstructed views and enhance natural lighting.
03
Water features integrated into the landscape promote relaxation and tranquility.
04
Therapeutic spaces designed to engage multiple senses for holistic well-being.
05
Strategic layout facilitates community interaction while preserving individual privacy.

### Overview

The Spa Dwelling project is situated within a natural landscape characterized by abundant vegetation and water bodies, designed as a retreat for eco-tourism. The overarching intention is to create a harmonious space that merges architecture with nature, enhancing visitor experiences of tranquility and relaxation. The design aims to foster a strong connection between users and their environment, emphasizing themes of awareness and healing.

### Spatial Configuration

The Spa Dwelling features a monolithic structure composed of cuboidal forms that echo natural monoliths, thoughtfully arranged to promote human interaction with the landscape. This spatial strategy allows guests to engage with their surroundings while offering various perspectives of the natural setting. Key areas—including living spaces, therapy zones, and communal dining—are centralized, fostering a sense of community among visitors and enhancing the overall experience.

### Material Selection

Materiality plays a critical role in the project, supporting both aesthetic and functional goals. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, establishing a robust presence that aligns with the environment. Large glass panels facilitate visual connections to the outside, inviting natural light into the interior while maintaining transparency. Wood elements add warmth, whereas natural clay is incorporated in spa treatments, contributing to a therapeutic atmosphere. Glass blocks are strategically used to enhance light flow and spatial dynamics, collectively creating a tactile and sensory-rich environment that aligns with the project's emphasis on wellness and connection to nature.

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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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