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Rammed Earth Walls and Expansive Glass Foster Connection to Nature in Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Jae Min Park, Jason Kim
Rammed Earth Walls and Expansive Glass Foster Connection to Nature in Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Rammed earth walls and large glass panels seamlessly intertwine with the forested landscape, creating a serene wellness retreat designed for rejuvenation and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates rammed earth construction for thermal mass and sustainability.
02
Features large glass façades to enhance natural light and views of the forest landscape.
03
Utilizes locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.
04
Designed with adjustable shading devices for climate responsiveness.
05
Includes outdoor spa areas seamlessly integrated with the natural surroundings.
The architectural project, "Restorative Immersion," serves as a reflection of contemporary design principles rooted in sustainability and well-being, integrating seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Located in a picturesque landscape characterized by forests and water bodies, this project represents a thoughtful approach toward healing and restoration through architecture. It is designed to facilitate a deep connection between its occupants and the environment, offering a space where individuals can rejuvenate and rediscover their sense of peace.

The project operates primarily as a wellness retreat, offering various facilities aimed at promoting relaxation and health. Central to its function are dwelling units, indoor and outdoor spa areas, and spaces for communal gatherings, each designed with specific user experiences in mind. The dwelling units provide a comfortable home-like atmosphere with essential amenities, encouraging social interaction while maintaining private sanctuaries. In contrast, the spa facilities are specifically created to provide serene environments for wellness activities, such as massages and meditative practices, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in tranquility.

Key elements of the design include a strategic spatial organization that carefully zones different functions while promoting a flow between them. The interplay of spaces is a critical aspect, inviting exploration while ensuring opportunities for solitary reflection. The project's layout accommodates not only the built forms but also the natural elements surrounding them, emphasizing their importance in enhancing the overall experience.

A notable design approach is the embrace of sustainability through the choice of materials and energy-efficient strategies. The project employs rammed earth for the walls of the spa, providing a tactile experience while ensuring thermal mass to moderate indoor temperatures. Wood features prominently in structural elements and cladding, contributing warmth while allowing for variations in texture and pattern that engage the senses. Large glass panels are fundamental in connecting interior spaces with the outside world, flooding the areas with natural light and offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

The roofs within "Restorative Immersion" have been designed to capture rainwater, emphasizing responsible resource management. This focus on sustainability is also reflected in the landscaping, where native vegetation supports local ecology while minimizing the environmental footprint of the project. The architectural response to the climate further enhances user comfort, employing adjustable shading devices to manage sun exposure and harnessing insulation techniques to maintain warmth during cooler months.

The project distinctively addresses the intersection of architecture and wellness by utilizing light, texture, and spatial dynamics to craft an immersive experience. The use of slatted wood features creates shifting shadow patterns in interior spaces, providing visual intrigue and enhancing the feeling of calmness. The design purposely contrasts brighter outdoor spaces with subdued indoor environments, cultivating a sense of refuge and introspection for visitors.

As an example of careful architectural thought, "Restorative Immersion" embodies a refined approach to fostering well-being through design. Each element—from the material choices to the layout—has been meticulously considered to serve the overarching goal of creating a restorative environment. For those interested in exploring this project in greater detail, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will offer deeper insights into how thoughtful architectural ideas culminate in a cohesive and healing space.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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