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Translucent Polycarbonate Facade Melds With Steel Framework In A Wellness Retreat Designed For Hydrotherapy And Community Engagement

Authors:
Ying Wang, Jinxi Yang
Translucent Polycarbonate Facade Melds With Steel Framework In A Wellness Retreat Designed For Hydrotherapy And Community Engagement

Project in-detail

A polycarbonate facade envelops a steel framework, creating a seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces in a wellness facility that integrates hydrotherapy and local brewing culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
A polycarbonate facade adapts to environmental light conditions, enhancing energy efficiency.
02
The structure incorporates a steel framework designed for minimal visual impact on the landscape.
03
Hydrotherapy features are integrated seamlessly within the social areas, promoting collective relaxation.
04
Local brewing techniques are showcased through interactive exhibits within the facility.
05
The use of natural materials emphasizes sustainability while connecting the building to its geographic context.

### Project Overview

The beer spa is situated in a tranquil natural landscape, aiming to integrate recreational activities with wellness experiences. This design prioritizes the relationship between the building and its environment, creating a retreat that fosters relaxation and a connection to nature.

### Material Strategy

The choice of materials reflects both durability and aesthetic sensibility. The structure is enveloped in polycarbonate panels that allow for natural light while offering weather protection. A steel framework supports the expansive open spaces essential for communal interaction, while wood finishes introduce warmth and tactility. Tempered and laminated glass enhances visibility and engagement with the outdoor vistas, and concrete flooring ensures continuity and maintenance ease. Stainless steel is strategically used in brewing areas to meet hygiene standards while maintaining visual coherence.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The layout facilitates multiple functions across several levels:

- The ground floor accommodates brewing and social spaces, including a bar and relaxation areas enhanced with hydrotherapy features.
- The second floor serves as a dining area, designed with large windows to offer panoramic views and a welcoming environment.
- The third floor is dedicated to educational exhibits on brewing culture and includes a flexible bar area that encourages social interaction.

The design incorporates skylights and expansive windows to manipulate light throughout the day, paired with overhangs and louvers to modulate solar exposure. This encourages a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the ambiance and user experience in both social and private settings.

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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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