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Robotic Fabrication of Local Blue Clay Creating a Wellness Retreat in a Natural Landscape

Author:
LUIS MENENDEZ
Robotic Fabrication of Local Blue Clay Creating a Wellness Retreat in a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing robotic fabrication techniques, the design integrates locally sourced blue clay to create a series of therapeutic spaces that harmonize with the natural landscape, enhancing the wellness experience for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes robotic extrusion technology for precise clay brick fabrication.
02
Incorporates natural thermal mass for energy efficiency and comfort.
03
Features large glass facades designed for optimal seasonal sunlight.
04
Integrates communal outdoor spaces with views of a tranquil pond.
05
Constructed primarily with locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.

## Overview

The Blue Clay Country Spa is located within a natural landscape and aims to provide a luxury wellness retreat that integrates contemporary architectural principles with the surrounding environment. Designed to utilize the locally abundant blue clay, the project focuses on a harmonious relationship with the ecological context while addressing both functionality and aesthetics. The spa is organized into four distinct yet interconnected volumes, enhancing not only the spatial experience but also the overall wellbeing of its users.

## Spatial Configuration and Materiality

### Volumetric Organization
The design features a decentralized arrangement of four primary volumes: the Guest House, which provides accommodation with expansive views; Therapy and Relaxation Areas dedicated to wellness treatments; Dining Areas that encourage social interaction; and complementary spaces such as the Kitchen and Sauna. This layout promotes fluid movement between the different areas while ensuring privacy is maintained for relaxation.

### Material Selection
Blue clay serves as the primary construction material due to its sustainability and visual appeal. It minimizes ecological footprints by utilizing local resources and incorporates cutting-edge technologies, such as robotic fabrication, to create intricate brick designs efficiently. The facades blend transparency and solidity, optimizing natural light while maintaining privacy and comfort. Complementary materials, including wood and glass, further contribute to the sensory experience, enhancing the connection to the surrounding landscape.

## Sustainable Practices and Innovation

### Environmental Integration
The design purposefully connects to its natural surroundings, with structures positioned to take advantage of views, sunlight, and airflow. This enhances the experience of tranquility and rejuvenation for guests. Furthermore, sustainable practices are central to the project, significantly reducing construction waste and emphasizing eco-friendly approaches.

### Technological Integration
The use of robotic arms for the extrusion of blue clay marks a notable advancement in the construction methodology, allowing for customized brick patterns while ensuring the structural integrity of the design. This innovative approach not only adheres to traditional craftsmanship but also embraces contemporary digital technology, reflecting a commitment to efficiency and aesthetic excellence.

Materials employed throughout the SPA include blue clay for structural elements, wood for internal finishes, large glass openings to enhance natural light, and steel for necessary reinforcements.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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