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Rhythmic Surroundings with Ash-White Wood and White-Painted Metal in a Wellness Retreat

Author:
Kjhkk Jhgkjh
Rhythmic Surroundings with Ash-White Wood and White-Painted Metal in a Wellness Retreat
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Built with ash-white wood and white-painted metal, the retreat harmonizes with its natural surroundings while offering a focused environment for wellness and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rhythmic sounds welcome visitors upon arrival, enhancing the transition into the spa environment.
02
Structures are inspired by traditional Latvian architecture, blending modern and regional styles.
03
Ash-white wood and white-painted metal are uniquely chosen for their aesthetic and environmental qualities.
04
Thermal efficiency is achieved through an over-insulated wooden core within each building.
05
The layout facilitates both communal interaction and private retreat, catering to diverse wellness needs.

The project establishes a strong connection between open areas and sheltered spaces, situated in a landscape that highlights the relationship with nature. It serves as a wellness retreat, allowing visitors to experience both community and solitude while immersing themselves in the environment. The design focuses on creating spaces that promote relaxation, inviting users to reconnect with themselves and the natural world around them.

Concept and Layout

The arrangement begins with a welcoming entrance marked by soothing sounds that help visitors transition into the spa environment. At the center lies an orientation area connecting various elements, encouraging interaction among users. This central space enhances accessibility, promoting an engaging experience through a well-organized site plan that prioritizes the needs of those who visit.

Structural Elements

Key structures include the spa and the greenhouse, which act as prominent features in the landscape, encouraging exploration. Outside, amenities like jacuzzis and open-air areas cater to relaxation and wellness, allowing guests to enjoy various experiences. The thoughtful inclusion of these facilities supports personal rejuvenation and aligns with the retreat's focus on wellness.

Materiality and Cultural Influence

The design draws inspiration from the region's traditional architecture, with each house reflecting elements of a Latvian-style home. Ash-white wood and white-painted metal are the primary materials used, promoting harmony with the landscape. This choice respects local building practices while embracing a modern approach that resonates with the environment.

Sustainability and Thermal Efficiency

Sustainability is a central theme in the design, particularly regarding thermal performance. Each building is conceived as a greenhouse, featuring an insulated wooden core that works to regulate the indoor climate effectively. This design decision enhances energy efficiency and aligns with the retreat's goals for sustainability, creating a comfortable environment for users.

The thoughtful balance of transparency and opacity in the design leads to a layered experience that guides visitors through distinct spaces. This careful arrangement fosters connections to nature, while also providing areas suited for peace and relaxation, highlighting a commitment to enriching the experience within a well-considered landscape.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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