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Rammed Earth Walls and Biophilic Design Enhance Wellness Experience in a Natural Spa Retreat

Authors:
Thilini Warnakulasuriya, Manuella Borges, Andreas Root
Rammed Earth Walls and Biophilic Design Enhance Wellness Experience in a Natural Spa Retreat
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Rammed earth walls and expansive glazing create a harmonious interplay of natural materials and light in a wellness retreat designed to foster tranquility and connection with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide exceptional thermal mass, moderating indoor temperatures.
02
Extensive glazing enhances natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Biophilic design elements promote a strong connection with nature throughout the space.
04
Zen courtyards serve as meditation areas, encouraging mindfulness and relaxation.
05
Sustainable features include rainwater harvesting systems and solar energy integration.

**Overview**

Located in Latvia, the Blue Clay Spa exemplifies an approach to architecture that prioritizes integration with the natural environment while delivering wellness facilities. The design focuses on creating an immersive experience that fosters a connection with the surrounding landscape through thoughtful spatial organization and material selection. The intent is to promote relaxation and tranquility by enhancing interactions with nature, allowing visitors to engage with their surroundings uniquely and meaningfully.

**Spatial Configuration and User Experience**

The layout of the Blue Clay Spa is carefully orchestrated into interconnected zones that enhance the overall experience. Wellness areas, including treatment rooms and relaxation lounges, are designed to foster tranquility, while social hubs such as an open kitchen and dining area encourage communal interaction. Zen courtyards, strategically positioned throughout the property, provide secluded spaces for reflection, surrounded by elements of nature. This configuration supports fluid circulation and promotes an organic flow between different environments, enabling guests to navigate seamlessly throughout the spa.

**Materiality and Sustainability**

Sustainability is a core principle of the project, reflected in the choice of materials and construction methods. Rammed earth serves as a primary material, offering thermal mass and natural insulation. Wood provides aesthetic warmth, while extensive glazing ensures ample natural light and visual connectivity with the outdoors. Lightweight concrete contributes durability without compromising the ecological footprint. Climate-responsive strategies are implemented, including the use of thermal mass to regulate indoor temperatures, solar panels for energy self-sufficiency, and systems for rainwater harvesting, emphasizing a commitment to environmentally sensitive design and low-impact living.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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