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Sustainable Retreat Crafted From Straw Bales With Timber Framing Nestled In A Forest Setting

Author:
Marius Pawliczek
Sustainable Retreat Crafted From Straw Bales With Timber Framing Nestled In A Forest Setting

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced straw bales and timber framing, this retreat seamlessly integrates with its forest surroundings while providing a calm space for wellness and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using straw bales for superior insulation and minimal environmental impact.
02
Timber framing sourced entirely from local forests, supporting regional sustainability.
03
Features large, strategically positioned windows to enhance natural light and outdoor views.
04
Incorporates passive design strategies for energy efficiency and climate adaptability.
05
Modular construction allows for flexible spatial arrangements and efficient assembly on-site.

The Blue Clay Country Spa project is a well-considered architectural endeavor located within the Latvian forest. This project achieves a balance between modern design and traditional building methods while emphasizing sustainability. The primary function of the spa is to serve as a wellness and relaxation retreat, offering facilities that cater to both guests and staff.

The structure is organized into five distinct volumes: the guest house, spa, staff quarters, garage, and stables. This modular arrangement allows for clear spatial delineation while fostering interaction among program elements. The use of natural materials such as straw bales and timber reinforces the connection to the locale’s environmental context. The design promotes minimal disturbance to the landscape, prioritizing ecological integrity.

Sustainability is a core tenet of this project. The architects incorporated locally sourced materials alongside innovative construction techniques, which contribute to the overall energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprint. The choice of straw bales for wall construction provides excellent thermal insulation, while the timber framing is both structurally sound and visually appealing. The hipped roof not only resonates with traditional Latvian architecture but also effectively manages rainwater runoff.

Innovative design approaches set this project apart from typical spa developments. The modular assembly method streamlines construction processes, allowing for timely and efficient project realization. Passive design strategies, including strategically placed windows and overhangs, enhance natural ventilation and daylighting, which are essential for reducing reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical climate control.

The architectural outcome is characterized by open, well-lit spaces that create a sense of tranquility, with interior finishes that employ natural materials to ensure a consistent aesthetic throughout the facility. Guest rooms feature large windows that frame views of the forest, creating a seamless connection between indoor spaces and the surrounding environment. Common areas are designed to encourage social interaction while maintaining privacy for guests.

Overall, this architectural design stands as a reflection of modern sensibilities combined with a respect for tradition. The project demonstrates the potential to create sustainable, functional spaces within a natural setting. For further insights, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs associated with the Blue Clay Country Spa project to gain a deeper understanding of its design intricacies and architectural ideas.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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