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Timber Frame Retreat Embracing Natural Filtration and Sustainable Landscapes

Authors:
Ka Lok Man, Prachi Rampuria, Soham De, Todor Kuznetsov
Timber Frame Retreat Embracing Natural Filtration and Sustainable Landscapes

Project in-detail

Utilizing a prefabricated timber frame and an eco-ring for natural water filtration, the retreat is designed to create a harmonious connection with its Latvian landscape while providing a wellness-focused experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes an eco-ring of wetlands for natural water purification.
02
Incorporates a prefabricated timber frame for efficient construction.
03
Features a central zone defined by existing oak trees.
04
Integrates food production zones within the landscape design.
05
Connects indoor spa facilities with surrounding natural elements.

The Blue Clay Country Spa is located in the peaceful Latvian landscape, designed as a place that connects with nature. The function of the spa focuses on promoting sustainability and enhancing user experiences. The overall design concept aims to blend the built environment with natural elements, encouraging visitors to interact with the surroundings in a meaningful way.

Eco-ring Concept

The project features an 'eco-ring' that consists of a circular arrangement of green spaces. This area is designed for multiple uses, including food production. Dykes deliver irrigation to these spaces, which are linked to a 'blue ring' of wetlands next to a lake. This clever setup not only supports local biodiversity but also acts as a natural filter for grey water and surface runoff, helping to purify water sources in the area.

Experiential Landscape

Careful planning allows for circulation routes that enhance the relationship between the spa and its natural environment. The main path runs through a zone with existing oak trees and acts as a focal point for outdoor activities. Several narrow pathways make it easy for visitors to access the surrounding forest, inviting them to explore different landscapes. The design incorporates indoor spa facilities in a way that connects with the outdoor areas, providing a relaxing atmosphere for users.

Materiality and Architectural Form

The design includes a lightweight, prefabricated timber frame, which aligns with energy-efficient practices and local building traditions. Pitched roofs echo familiar forms, linking modern structures with their historical context. The use of structural timber panels supports sustainability objectives while ensuring the buildings remain durable and visually appealing.

Wide terraces extend towards the lake, offering clear views of the water and inviting visitors to enjoy the natural setting. This design detail encourages a deep connection with the landscape, highlighting a commitment to creating spaces that foster harmony between architecture and nature.

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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

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