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Straw Clay Construction With Organic Landscapes in a Sustainable Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Dimitris Tsigkopoulos, Dimitris Tsoutsas
Straw Clay Construction With Organic Landscapes in a Sustainable Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with straw clay and local timber, the wellness retreat seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings and sustainable landscape, offering a unique sanctuary for health and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes straw clay construction to enhance insulation and minimize environmental impact.
02
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for sustainable resource management.
03
Features extensive landscaping with vegetable gardens and native flora to enrich biodiversity.
04
Designed with a circular layout to foster community interaction and connection.
05
Employs large glass elements to maximize natural light while blending indoor and outdoor environments.
The Blue Clay Country Spa represents a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between architecture, wellness, and sustainability. This project is designed not only as a spa but also as a community hub that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation in a natural setting. Located in a picturesque landscape, the architecture embraces its environment, showcasing a unique blend of natural materials and efficient design principles that resonate with contemporary demands for ecological responsibility.

The primary function of the Blue Clay Country Spa is to offer a sanctuary for individuals seeking health and wellness. The architecture is meticulously crafted to cater to various therapeutic experiences, including massage therapy, relaxation rooms, and wellness workshops. Each space within the spa is designed with an emphasis on comfort and tranquility, promoting a holistic approach to health that integrates both physical and mental well-being.

The layout of the project is particularly noteworthy, as it features a circular organization that promotes both interaction and flow among its diverse spaces. This intended design creates a sense of community, encouraging guests to engage with one another and the environment. Central to the project is a communal area that acts as both a social gathering point and a transition space, facilitating easy access to therapy rooms, relaxation zones, and dining areas. The intentional placement of these elements showcases a deep understanding of how architecture can foster meaningful connections.

Materiality is one of the most significant aspects of the Blue Clay Country Spa. By utilizing locally sourced straw clay for construction, the project achieves excellent thermal insulation while reducing environmental impact. This material choice is emblematic of a larger trend in architecture, where sustainability is not just an add-on but a core principle that shapes every decision. Complementing the straw clay are timber features, which lend structural integrity and warmth to the interiors, and stone, which adds a sense of permanence and connection to the earth. Glass elements are strategically incorporated to maximize natural light and provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.

A unique design approach within this project is the implementation of a rainwater collection system that aligns with its sustainability goals. This system captures rainwater for reuse in landscaping and non-potable applications, underscoring a commitment to conservation. Strong emphasis is placed on the landscaping surrounding the spa, with vegetable gardens and flower beds integrated seamlessly into the overall architectural design. This thoughtful integration not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes biodiversity and supports local ecosystems.

The spa’s design also carefully considers the pathways that guide visitors through the space. Walkways are designed to offer sensory experiences that engage guests with the natural surroundings, featuring seating areas that encourage visitors to pause and reflect. Such small, mindful details illustrate how architecture can create immersive experiences that foster a deeper connection to nature.

In addition to its architectural significance, the Blue Clay Country Spa stands as a testament to the importance of promoting health and well-being through thoughtful design. The project balances functionality with beauty, creating spaces that serve the immediate needs of guests while fostering a greater appreciation for the natural environment. The inclusion of communal spaces emphasizes social interaction, enriching the overall experience of wellness the spa aims to provide.

For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of this architectural venture, exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will reveal further insights into the thoughtful careful consideration that has defined this project. The Blue Clay Country Spa is a place where architecture meets nature, providing a blueprint for future developments that prioritize a harmonious relationship with the environment and human well-being.
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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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