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Robotic Extrusion of Blue Clay and Natural Light in a Tranquil Wellness Retreat

Author:
LUIS MENENDEZ
Robotic Extrusion of Blue Clay and Natural Light in a Tranquil Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Robotic extrusion of blue clay forms the foundation of a tranquil wellness retreat that harmonizes natural elements with cutting-edge construction techniques, inviting guests to rejuvenate in a serene landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes robotic arms for the precise extrusion of blue clay bricks, enhancing construction efficiency and accuracy.
02
Incorporates a central pond that serves as both an aesthetic feature and a source of tranquility for guests.
03
Features extensive glass walls to maximize natural light and connection to the surrounding landscape.
04
Includes a vegetable and fruit garden that promotes sustainability and provides fresh produce for the spa's culinary offerings.
05
The layout is designed to create intimate spaces, fostering a sense of privacy while encouraging interaction with nature.
The Blue Clay Country Spa represents a thoughtful intersection of architecture and nature, serving as a holistic retreat designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. Strategically located in a picturesque landscape, the project emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and a deep connection to the surrounding environment. This spa is more than just a physical structure; it embodies a commitment to well-being and promotes a lifestyle that embraces natural living.

Functionally, the Blue Clay Country Spa serves multiple purposes, including accommodation, wellness treatments, and communal areas for dining and social interaction. The layout is intuitively organized, centering around a serene pond which acts as the heart of the complex. This central feature not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the project but also provides a calming focal point for guests throughout their stay. The arrangement of the buildings, which consists of several distinct structures, creates intimate spaces that foster a sense of privacy while encouraging interaction with nature.

Each of the key components within the spa is designed with a specific purpose in mind. The guest house offers comfortable accommodations, allowing visitors to retreat and unwind in a peaceful setting. VIP therapeutic areas are included to provide individualized wellness experiences, focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation. Similarly, the inclusion of a sauna and dedicated relaxation rooms allows guests to immerse themselves in restorative practices. A garden dedicated to growing fruits and vegetables not only emphasizes sustainability but also reinforces a connection to the food that nourishes guests during their stay.

The design of the Blue Clay Country Spa is distinctively informed by its materiality. The use of blue clay, a local and abundant resource, reflects an ecological approach to construction that minimizes environmental impact. This choice of material contributes not only to the visual identity of the spa but also promotes the value of sustainability in architectural practices. In addition to blue clay, the architects have incorporated wood for structural elements and flooring, providing warmth and enhancing the ambiance of the interior spaces. Glass is utilized to create expansive views that draw the outside environment inward, further blurring the boundaries between the interior and exterior.

Unique design approaches characterize the architectural strategies employed in this project. One of the hallmarks is the integration of advanced construction techniques, notably the use of robotic arms for the extrusion of clay bricks. This represents a forward-thinking approach that merges traditional materiality with modern technology, resulting in a product that is not only visually appealing but also structurally sound. The biophilic design elements incorporated throughout the spa promote a deep connection to nature, encouraging guests to appreciate the serene landscape surrounding them.

Another notable feature is the careful design of interactive spaces. The open-plan layout allows for a flexible use of space, fostering social interaction while enabling guests to find moments of solitude. The design maximizes sight lines toward the pond and lush greenery, enhancing the overall experience and providing opportunities for reflection and tranquility.

A comprehensive understanding of the Blue Clay Country Spa can be further enriched by exploring its architectural plans and sections, which provide detailed insights into the organization and functionality of the space. The architectural designs reflect a meticulous thought process that respects both the context of the site and the needs of its users. As you delve deeper into this project presentation, you will discover additional architectural ideas that underline the balance of form, function, and environmental stewardship that defines the Blue Clay Country Spa.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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