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Reimagining Serenity With Blue Clay And Expansive Glass In A Tranquil Spa Retreat

Authors:
Guillaume Galamand, Noemie Jahel
Reimagining Serenity With Blue Clay And Expansive Glass In A Tranquil Spa Retreat

Project in-detail

With its unique use of local blue clay and inviting expanses of glass, the design creates a harmonious retreat that fosters relaxation and rejuvenation in a serene lakeside setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates locally sourced blue clay, enhancing environmental integration.
02
Expansive glass facades maximize natural light while offering unobstructed views of the lake.
03
A green roof promotes biodiversity and provides insulation, aligning with sustainability goals.
04
Timber elements throughout the interior foster warmth and connection to the natural environment.
05
The layout encourages a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the user experience.
The project, Blue Clay Country Spa, presents an architectural design that celebrates the relationship between built environments and nature. Situated in a locale dedicated to wellness, this spa is designed to serve as a sanctuary where visitors can unwind, rejuvenate, and connect with their surroundings. The hallmark of this architectural endeavor lies in its ability to seamlessly blend the functionality of a modern spa with the tranquil beauty of its geographic location.

Blue Clay Country Spa functions primarily as a wellness retreat, offering a range of relaxing and therapeutic services. The design embodies the principles of wellness and serenity, emphasizing a user-friendly experience that encourages visitors to immerse themselves in the calming atmosphere. The spatial arrangement promotes a flow that guides individuals from exterior landscapes into tranquil, carefully curated interior spaces, ensuring that every area enhances the overall experience.

The architecture of the spa is characterized by its thoughtful integration with the landscape, using linear arrangements to orient views towards a scenic lake. This connection to water is a crucial aspect of the project, as it cultivates a sense of peace and draws visitors into the natural beauty surrounding them. The layout includes distinct zones for various activities, such as indoor and outdoor pools, therapy rooms, and communal dining areas, each crafted to provide a unique experience while maintaining an overarching sense of coherence.

The design team's approach to materiality plays a vital role in the architectural expression of the spa. A carefully curated selection of materials, including brick, glass, wood, and a green roof, reinforces the project’s commitment to sustainability. The use of brick, modeled to reflect local blue clay, helps the structure harmonize with its environment while ensuring durability. Expansive glass façades invite natural light into the interior spaces, establishing an open atmosphere that strengthens the bond between the indoor and outdoor environments. Additionally, wooden elements throughout the spa offer warmth and tactile engagement, further enhancing the tranquil character of the space.

One of the unique design approaches taken in this project is the careful consideration of topography. The building is positioned on a gentle slope, allowing for strategic site placement that maximizes views of the lake and surrounding foliage. This thoughtful siting not only respects natural contours but also promotes an immersive experience in nature, aligning perfectly with the spa’s mission of wellness.

In terms of spatial configuration, the architecture supports fluid movement throughout the site. Clear pathways guide visitors through the different areas, promoting an exploratory journey rather than a mere destination. The interactions between spaces have been deliberately planned to enhance both social interactions and personal retreats. Each therapy room is designed to ensure privacy while allowing a view of the natural setting, further contributing to the calming experience patrons can expect.

The integration of sustainable practices is also evident in the architectural design, with features such as solar panels and a green roof that not only provide environmental benefits but also contribute to the aesthetics of the building. This commitment to sustainable architecture resonates throughout the project, making it a relevant choice for environmentally conscious users seeking wellness experiences.

Blue Clay Country Spa exemplifies a harmonious blend of architecture, nature, and wellness. Its calming aesthetic, clear organization of space, and thoughtful material selection embody the core values of modern spa design. This project stands as a testament to how architecture can respond to its environment while serving the needs of its users. For a deeper understanding and to appreciate the thoughtful designs that shape this wellness retreat, the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas presented in the project deserve exploration. Discovering more about the Blue Clay Country Spa reveals the nuances and intricacies of a well-crafted architectural design that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation in an exceptional setting.
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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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