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Natural Stone and Zinc Integration in Contemporary Wellness Retreat Architecture

Authors:
Amanda Indriyanto, Kollin Akbar, Rizki Nindito, Andrew Kusuma
Natural Stone and Zinc Integration in Contemporary Wellness Retreat Architecture

Project in-detail

Combining locally sourced stone and modern zinc cladding, the design provides a serene wellness retreat that emphasizes meditation, community engagement, and sustainable practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally quarried stone to maintain historical context and connection to the landscape.
02
Incorporates modern zinc cladding for durability and contrast with the original barn structure.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and environmental sustainability.
04
Includes an educational agricultural component to engage guests with hands-on farming experiences.
05
Design emphasizes natural light through expansive glazing, connecting interior spaces with the outdoors.

The architectural project focuses on creating a tranquil nature retreat that emphasizes connection with the surrounding environment and promotes wellness. The design strategically integrates a restored 19th-century stone barn with modern architectural interventions, establishing a harmonious relationship between historical context and contemporary needs. This project serves multiple functions, including spaces for meditation, yoga, and community engagement through educational activities, ultimately striving to enhance the overall visitor experience.

Materiality plays a crucial role in this design. The use of locally sourced natural stone in the original barn restoration preserves its historical integrity while providing robust, lasting structures. To contrast with the aged stone, modern dark zinc cladding has been introduced, demonstrating a thoughtful juxtaposition between old and new. The extensive application of timber throughout the interiors offers warmth and comfort, reinforcing the connection to nature. Large glass panels facilitate abundant natural light, creating a strong visual and physical connection to the outdoor surrounding.

The project distinguishes itself through its commitment to sustainability and community interaction. The design incorporates an educational farming initiative, allowing guests to engage in hands-on experiences with agriculture. This not only serves as an educational tool but also fosters community ties, making the retreat not just a destination but a platform for social interaction and learning.

The layout of various spaces is intentionally designed to maximize both privacy and communal gathering. The guest cabins, creatively positioned, offer diverse experiences ranging from secluded retreats to shared communal living. Some cabins are elevated to provide sweeping views, while others seamlessly integrate with the landscape. This variation ensures that each guest can find a personal connection to the environment, enhancing their overall retreat experience.

Overall, this architectural design embodies a thoughtful approach to blending heritage with modernity, emphasizing sustainability, functionality, and community engagement. The project systematically addresses the needs and expectations of visitors, making it a unique addition to the landscape of nature retreats. For further understanding of this innovative architecture, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas associated with the project to gain deeper insights into its comprehensive vision.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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