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Wellness retreat featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles in a natural landscape

Author:
Jose Angel Dacasa
Wellness retreat featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles in a natural landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled in the tranquil landscape of Kurzeme, this wellness retreat seamlessly integrates local timber and charred wood shingles with biomimetic design, creating a sustainable haven that fosters relaxation while harmonizing with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The design incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and energy efficiency, reflecting modern building techniques while honoring local craftsmanship.
02
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for roofing, providing not only aesthetic appeal but also enhanced durability and protection against the elements.
03
The project features a bent A-frame design, allowing for unique spatial configurations that maximize natural light and enhance the connection to the outdoors.
04
A central courtyard, surrounded by cabins, offers a communal gathering space that fosters community interaction and engagement with nature.
05
The use of local materials minimizes carbon footprint and supports regional industries, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility throughout the building process.
The Blue Clay Country Spa (BCCS) is an architectural project situated in the serene landscape of Kurzeme, Western Latvia. Characterized by a thoughtful integration of modern and vernacular design principles, this project embodies a vision of a tranquil retreat that prioritizes both sustainability and user experience. The architecture of BCCS represents a harmonious balance between built structures and the surrounding natural environment, offering a unique space for relaxation and wellness.

The primary function of the BCCS is to serve as a wellness destination, providing various amenities such as guest cabins, spa facilities, and communal areas for social interaction. Each component is designed with specific purposes in mind, enhancing the overall experience for visitors seeking respite from daily pressures. The guest cabins are thoughtfully positioned to ensure privacy while fostering a sense of community through shared spaces like the central courtyard, which features a fire pit and encourages gatherings.

An essential aspect of the BCCS is its commitment to sustainability. The project employs a range of materials that reflect local building traditions while offering energy efficiency and environmental compatibility. Key materials used include wood, stone, thatch, and glass. Wood serves as the primary structural element, creating warmth and connection to the local context. Stone is incorporated into the design, offering durability and a thermal mass that contributes to indoor climate regulation. Thatch, utilized for roofing, pays homage to historical practices, while glass elements provide transparency that connects indoor spaces with the lush outdoors, enhancing user engagement with nature.

The layout of the project emphasizes functionality while maintaining an organic flow that mirrors the natural landscape. The arrangement of different cabin types—guest cabins, spa and sauna facilities, and communal areas—ensures that the experience caters to various needs, from solitude to socializing. This thoughtful organization allows visitors to immerse themselves fully in both individual wellness journeys and shared community experiences.

Unique design approaches within the BCCS include a focus on biomimicry in architectural forms, drawing inspiration from the natural environment. The forms of the cabins and communal areas may reflect the organic shapes of the surrounding landscape, creating a visual and experiential continuity that encourages visitors to appreciate their surroundings. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides meaningful connections to the site's ecology and geography.

The design also prioritizes natural light and ventilation, with strategically placed windows and openings that allow for ample daylight and fresh air, contributing to a healthy indoor environment. This integration of passive design strategies helps to reduce reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems, further promoting the sustainability goals of the project.

As visitors engage with the BCCS, they will find a space that thoughtfully combines functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic richness. The project does not merely serve as a place to stay; it offers an immersive experience in wellness tourism that deeply respects and reflects the local context. The attention to detail in architectural elements, such as the choice of materials and the harmony of forms, showcases an understanding of how architecture can enhance the well-being of its users.

To gain deeper insights into the Blue Clay Country Spa project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that articulate its comprehensive vision. These elements provide a thorough understanding of the project’s thoughtful approach to creating a well-integrated space designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.
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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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