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Natural Clay Finishes and Thatch Roofing in a Sustainable Community Retreat

Authors:
Anna Viken, Mariya Banga, Max Leonov
Natural Clay Finishes and Thatch Roofing in a Sustainable Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing natural clay finishes and traditional thatch roofing, the design integrates sustainable materials with communal living spaces to create a restorative retreat focused on wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features thatch roofing for natural insulation and environmental integration.
02
Incorporates refurbished wood to promote sustainability and reduce waste.
03
Utilizes clay finishes that enhance thermal performance and aesthetics.
04
Includes vertical gardens to improve air quality and foster biodiversity.
05
Design optimizes passive ventilation for energy efficiency and comfort.
The Long House Blue Clay Country Spa is an architectural project designed to merge traditional building practices with modern sustainability principles. Located in a setting that promotes connectivity to nature, this design emphasizes community while providing individual spaces for relaxation and rejuvination. The focus on local materials and construction techniques reflects a commitment to ecological responsibility and cultural integrity.

The project's layout features distinct zones that accommodate various functions. A central communal area invites guests to gather while adjacent private accommodations ensure a sense of personal space. The master plan employs strategic landscaping, including agricultural and recreational spaces, which promote self-sufficiency and outdoor engagement. Careful placement of terraces allows for uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing the user experience.

The architectural design represents a contemporary interpretation of vernacular architecture. This approach integrates local building traditions with modern amenities, creating a relevant and functional living space. The design prioritizes energy efficiency, using natural insulation techniques and responsive materials to adapt to seasonal climate variations. Natural ventilation tactics are utilized to reduce reliance on mechanical systems.

One of the unique aspects of this project is its material selection. The roofing employs thatching, a practice rooted in historical architecture, fostering thermal regulation while seamlessly fitting into the environment. The use of refurbished wood for structural elements and windows further emphasizes sustainability, showcasing the ability to repurpose materials without compromising aesthetics. Clay finishes apply not only for their natural beauty but also for their thermal properties, helping maintain comfortable interior conditions.

Additionally, the spatial organization encourages social interaction alongside private retreats, fostering a balanced lifestyle. Shared amenities, such as a communal kitchen and lounge areas, support community building among users. The thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor spaces provides a continuous flow, bridging the gap between the built environment and natural surroundings.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Long House Blue Clay Country Spa, including architectural plans, sections, and design details, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Engaging with the architectural ideas and technical specifications will provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches employed in this project.
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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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