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Thermal Retreat Featuring Brutalist Concrete and Water-Centric Design Elements

Authors:
Ethan Joseph Holder, Enya Mamie Weinandt, George Martin Grunklee, Tam Junior Le
Thermal Retreat Featuring Brutalist Concrete and Water-Centric Design Elements

Project in-detail

A seamless blend of brutalist concrete and water-centric design creates a therapeutic oasis that serves as both a spa and brewery, inviting visitors to engage with their surroundings while experiencing relaxation and community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Water pathways guide visitors through the space, enhancing sensory experiences and promoting exploration.
02
Natural materials such as charred wood shingles are utilized for their thermal performance and aesthetic appeal.
03
The brewery features an open layout that encourages social interaction and engages visitors in the brewing process.
04
Large glass facades provide unobstructed views, merging interior spaces with the surrounding landscape.
05
The design emphasizes sustainability through climate-responsive materials and layouts that reduce energy consumption.
The Hvildu project represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and nature, designed as a dual-purpose spa and brewery. Located in a tranquil setting, the project aims to foster relaxation and community engagement, addressing the growing demand for wellness spaces that also serve as social hubs. The architecture emphasizes the therapeutic qualities of water, positioning it as a central theme throughout the design. Utilizing a combination of concrete, glass, wood, and copper, the project demonstrates a commitment to both functionality and aesthetic harmony.

In this architectural design, significant attention is given to spatial organization and user experience. The layout facilitates flow, guiding visitors through a sequence of thoughtfully curated spaces. Each area is designed to engage the senses while providing a range of wellness activities. The spa features a series of therapeutic rooms, each equipped for personal relaxation, while group areas enhance social interaction among visitors. The combination of individual and communal spaces reflects the project's aim to balance solitude with social connection.

The brewery complements the spa by offering a communal area where patrons can gather and participate in the brewing process. The design includes an open layout that encourages interaction, reinforcing a sense of community. Large windows provide natural light and views of the surrounding landscape, further blending the interior with the external environment. The choice of materials, specifically the use of raw concrete juxtaposed with the warmth of wood and the industrial elegance of copper, creates a tactile diversity that enriches the visitor experience.

Unique aspects of the Hvildu project include its emphasis on water as a guiding element in both the spa and brewery. The design incorporates water features that create visual and auditory experiences, enhancing the overall therapeutic atmosphere. The intentional orientation and arrangement of spaces maximize exposure to natural light and surrounding views, promoting a seamless connection between users and the environment. The integration of water pathways serves as a creative design approach, directing movement and encouraging exploration throughout the facilities.

The architectural intentions behind Hvildu extend beyond mere functionality. The project challenges typical design conventions by merging two distinct experiences—spa and brewery—into one cohesive entity. This thoughtful intersection of wellness and community engagement is pivotal in redefining user interaction in such spaces. By prioritizing natural materials and light, the architecture not only enhances the aesthetic but also promotes sustainability and a deeper connection to the environment.

For a deeper understanding of the project’s intricacies, it is encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections, which detail the innovative design ideas and layouts that underpin this unique spa and brewery. Reviewing these elements will provide a comprehensive insight into the architectural strategies employed and their implications for user experience within the Hvildu project.
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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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