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Wellness retreat featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles harmonizing with nature

Authors:
Namsun Kim, Jonghyun Park
Wellness retreat featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles harmonizing with nature

Project in-detail

Nestled in the serene forests of Latvia, this wellness retreat uniquely combines cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles to create an inviting sanctuary that thoughtfully integrates modern design with the tranquility of nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The design incorporates rainwater harvesting systems, reducing reliance on municipal water sources and promoting sustainability.
02
A unique blue clay therapy service is offered, leveraging local materials for holistic wellness treatments.
03
The buildings are positioned to maintain a minimum two-meter distance from existing trees, ensuring minimal disruption to the natural ecosystem.
04
Extensive use of cross-laminated timber enhances both structural integrity and thermal performance, maximizing energy efficiency.
05
Charred wooden shingles are utilized not only for aesthetic appeal but also for their natural resistance to weather and pests, enhancing durability.
The architectural design project focuses on a spa resort situated in the lush green forests of Latvia, where the landscape serves as both a backdrop and a fundamental aspect of the project itself. This initiative aims to create a space that fosters relaxation and well-being while integrating harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The resort represents a careful balance between modern architecture and the natural world, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and a deep respect for cultural values.

At its core, the project functions as a retreat, offering guests a sanctuary for rejuvenation and healing. It features thoughtfully designed spaces that promote health and wellness, making use of natural materials and techniques that connect visitors to the local landscape. The architectural design comprises multiple buildings, primarily guest accommodations, staff housing, and a central spa facility. Each structure is placed with careful consideration to both visual and spatial relationships, ensuring that disturbances to existing trees and wildlife are minimized.

Central to the design are two guest houses and a spa facility, strategically positioned to foster a sense of community while maintaining individual privacy. The guest accommodations are designed with communal spaces that encourage interaction among visitors, while private rooms offer serene escapes. The spa facility, acting as the heart of the resort, houses treatment rooms and wellness areas that provide panoramic views of the surrounding forest. This connection to nature is further emphasized through the use of expansive glass walls that not only flood the interiors with natural light but also frame the beauty of the outdoor environment.

A notable aspect of this architectural project is its commitment to sustainability. The design incorporates a variety of eco-friendly features, such as the use of renewable energy sources like solar panels and intricate rainwater harvesting systems. Interior spaces are designed to facilitate natural airflow and maximize daylight, promoting energy efficiency and reducing reliance on artificial systems. The materials selected for construction— predominantly wood, glass, and stone— reflect the locality and echo traditional building methods while ensuring durability and low environmental impact.

One of the unique approaches of this resort design is its alignment with the cultural significance of Latvia’s natural resources. The architecture resonates with the Latvian ethos, where nature holds intrinsic value in daily life. By situating the buildings to enhance rather than disrupt the landscape, the project respects the local ecosystem and engages the senses, delivering a true retreat experience.

The overall design aesthetics balance modern and traditional elements, ensuring that each building complements its natural surroundings. For instance, the low-profile roofs mimic the natural slope of the forest and enhance the visual continuity of the landscape. This engagement with nature aims to create an environment where visitors can easily disconnect from their busy lives and reconnect with themselves and the natural world.

Moreover, the landscaping around the resort emphasizes native flora, ensuring that the environment remains inviting to wildlife and maintains ecological integrity. The paths connecting the various areas are designed to guide guests through the forest, further enhancing their experience of solitude and tranquility amidst the trees.

For those interested in understanding the architectural details and intricate design processes involved in this project, a comprehensive exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas is encouraged. These elements will provide deeper insights into how the project captures the essence of place, function, and design, serving not only as an escape but also as a model of thoughtful, sustainable architecture that honors the unique qualities of its setting.
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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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