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Rammed Earth Walls and Blue Clay Embrace in a Circular Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Venansia Frisca Natasya, Evelyn Sinugroho, Brigitta Karina
Rammed Earth Walls and Blue Clay Embrace in a Circular Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Integrating rammed earth walls and reclaimed blue clay within a circular layout, the design creates a multifaceted wellness retreat that harmonizes with the natural landscape while fostering community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates reclaimed blue clay known for its historical significance in winemaking.
02
Utilizes rammed earth walls to provide superior thermal mass and insulation.
03
Features a circular layout that enhances connectivity and accessibility between spaces.
04
Incorporates extensive green roofs with native vegetation for ecological balance.
05
Employs greywater recycling systems to promote sustainable water management.
The “Spine - Spa Wine” project is an architectural design that merges wellness, viticulture, and community spaces. Situated in a serene environment, the project emphasizes a holistic approach to health and social interaction through its integrated design of a spa and vineyard. The architecture reflects a commitment to sustainability, utilizing natural materials and environmental strategies that foster both individual and communal well-being.

Core to the project is the circular layout that enhances accessibility and encourages interaction among various spaces. The design's ring encompasses the primary functions, creating a seamless flow between the spa, vineyard, and gathering areas. This configuration promotes a sense of connection with nature and invites both residents and visitors to engage in recreational and therapeutic activities.

Sustainability is a critical focus of the project. Notable materials such as reclaimed blue clay, rammed earth walls, and autoclaved aerated concrete play significant roles in enhancing environmental performance. The use of glass elements maximizes natural light, while green roofs integrated with vegetation support ecological balance. Environmental strategies include rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems, ensuring responsible water management.

Unique Design Approaches in Functionality and Interaction

What differentiates the “Spine - Spa Wine” project from typical wellness centers is its dual emphasis on community interaction and integration with viticulture. The communal spaces situated within the circular colonnade create areas for social gatherings, workshops, and events, thus embedding a social fabric into the architectural experience. Design features such as a dining room and caretaker accommodations encourage a shared sense of purpose and connection among users, facilitating a collective approach to health and well-being.

The architectural response to the landscape’s topography is deliberate. The design minimizes environmental disruption while enhancing visual and physical access to existing natural features, particularly large trees at the center that promote a tranquil atmosphere. This biophilic approach not only creates visual interest but also fosters a connection to the natural environment essential for relaxation and well-being.

Architectural Details and Materiality

The project exhibits a detailed attention to material choices, reinforcing its sustainable ethos. The incorporation of rammed earth walls provides effective thermal properties, ensuring comfortable internal climates. The selective use of local materials, such as reclaimed blue clay, enhances the building's contextual relevance while reducing transportation impacts. Steel elements serve structural functions while allowing for open, airy spaces that promote interaction and light penetration.

The careful consideration of architectural plans, sections, and designs reflects an integrated approach to spatial organization, ensuring that the relationship between built and natural environments is responsive and respectful. Each design decision contributes to an overarching narrative that aligns with the core mission of promoting wellness and community.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and specific design elements, we encourage readers to explore the detailed presentation of the “Spine - Spa Wine” project. Insights into architectural ideas and design outcomes provide a deeper appreciation for this thoughtfully conceived architectural endeavor.
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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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