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Rainwater Harvesting Structure Crafted From Clay and Lathone Wood Enhancing Wellness Experience

Authors:
Claudio Chiarini, Ludovic Beau, Julien Dubois, Kevin Fuks
Rainwater Harvesting Structure Crafted From Clay and Lathone Wood Enhancing Wellness Experience

Project in-detail

Constructed with earth-based clay and Lathone wood, this wellness retreat prioritizes natural light and ecological sustainability while offering a serene escape for relaxation and rejuvenation by the pond.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with clay, enhancing thermal performance and aesthetic integration.
02
Utilizes Lathone wood for interior comfort and natural warmth.
03
Features a glass roof that optimizes natural light and facilitates rainwater harvesting.
04
Strategically positioned along a pond to foster a connection with nature.
05
Offers tailored wellness spaces designed for both communal and private relaxation.
The Blue Clay Country Spa represents a thoughtful architectural endeavor designed for relaxation and rejuvenation located by a serene pond. This project, which accommodates a maximum of ten guests, emphasizes a harmonious relationship with the surrounding environment. The architecture integrates clay and glass materials, illustrating a commitment to sustainability and natural aesthetics while fostering an immersive spa experience.

The primary function of the Blue Clay Country Spa is to provide a tranquil space for individuals seeking wellness amidst nature. The design includes various areas for accommodation, social interaction, and relaxation, all tailored to create an inviting atmosphere. The central hall, characterized by a glass roof, serves as the main communal area, ensuring abundant natural light and offering views of the outdoors. This layout encourages socialization while simultaneously allowing for private moments within guest rooms designed with Lathone wood for added warmth and comfort.

Unique Design Approaches

One notable aspect of the project is its innovative use of materials, particularly the integration of clay in the exterior, which not only provides aesthetic appeal but also enhances the building's thermal performance. The architecture adopts a Canadian roofing style for rainwater harvesting, a design feature that aligns with contemporary sustainability practices. This approach minimizes resource consumption while ensuring a functional building that operates effectively within its ecological context.

The positioning of the building along the pond is a strategic design choice that maximizes visual and spatial experiences. This relationship with water not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the spa but also promotes various recreational activities for guests. The project layout emphasizes a balance between communal spaces and private retreats, allowing guests to enjoy both interaction and solitude in a cohesive environment.

Spatial Organization and Aesthetic Cohesion

The architectural organization of the Blue Clay Country Spa effectively segregates service areas from guest zones, ensuring that operational functions do not disrupt the tranquil experience intended for patrons. This design consideration extends to the relaxation areas, which are thoughtfully placed to capitalize on views of the pond and its surrounding greenery. By prioritizing visual connectivity and environmental engagement, the project reflects a clear understanding of the relationship between architecture and its natural surroundings.

For those interested in exploring the finer details of the Blue Clay Country Spa, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, further investigation into the project's presentation is encouraged. This examination will provide a comprehensive understanding of how the architectural choices resonate with the intended purpose and function of this unique spa design.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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