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Wellness retreat showcasing cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles amid a lush landscape

Authors:
Peter Ballman, Daria Khapalova
Wellness retreat showcasing cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles amid a lush landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled in the verdant Kurzeme region, this wellness retreat features a harmonious blend of cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, designed to immerse visitors in nature while offering a serene escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The retreat integrates rainwater collection systems that enhance sustainability while providing water features for relaxation.
02
Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels allows for a lightweight structure while maintaining high durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Charred wooden shingles not only contribute to the building's unique look but also enhance fire resistance and longevity.
04
A bent A-frame design allows for open spaces that maximize natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
05
The layout incorporates designated meditation areas surrounded by lush vegetation, promoting tranquility and a strong connection to nature.
The Blue Clay Country Spa, located in the picturesque Kurzeme region of Latvia, represents a thoughtful and innovative approach to architecture focused on wellness and environmental harmony. This project exemplifies how design can foster a deep connection between individuals and nature while providing essential services aimed at relaxation and rejuvenation. The architectural framework integrates various communal and private spaces, inviting both solitude and social interaction within a tranquil setting.

At its core, the Blue Clay Country Spa serves multiple functions, including a wellness retreat, a relaxation area, and a social hub. The architectural design strategically positions different facilities — such as treatment rooms, leisure zones, and outdoor pools — around a central Great House, creating a cohesive flow throughout the site. This layout reflects an understanding of human behavior, providing visitors with various environments tailored to individual preferences and activities.

Key elements of the project include the extensive use of natural materials, which not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also promote sustainability. Wood is prominently featured in the framework and decking, offering warmth and an organic quality that resonates with the surrounding landscape. Large glass facades in the Great House serve to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces, allowing natural light to permeate the building and providing expansive views of the lush surroundings. This design approach reflects a deep respect for the environment, as it minimizes disruption to the natural ecosystem while maximizing the user's sensory experience.

Beyond the materials, the architectural design addresses practical concerns such as stormwater management, incorporating features that naturally collect and manage rainwater. This pragmatic approach to design not only fulfills environmental responsibilities but also contributes to the aesthetic richness of the landscape. Integration with the topography is a notable aspect, demonstrating a willingness to adapt architectural solutions based on the existing site context rather than imposing a rigid framework.

Unique design ideas are evident in various aspects of the project, especially in how the layout encourages exploration. Pathways wind through the landscape, enhancing the experience of discovery as visitors navigate from one facility to another. The incorporation of water elements, such as reflection pools and children's pools, further emphasizes tranquility and relaxation while serving as focal points that draw visitors deeper into the spa experience.

Moreover, the overall design philosophy champions the idea of multi-functional spaces, seamlessly blending distinct areas dedicated to wellness, leisure, and social interaction. This thoughtful organization encourages community engagement while ensuring that there are enough private spaces for individual reflection and relaxation.

The Blue Clay Country Spa stands as a testament to contemporary architectural practices that prioritize sustainability, community, and wellness. It invites discussion on how modern architecture can effectively harmonize with nature while addressing human needs. For those interested in exploring architectural solutions that consider both function and aesthetic in secluded settings, this project offers insightful architectural plans and details illustrating the thoughtful design process.

For a deeper understanding of its architectural ideas and innovative design approaches, readers are encouraged to review the project presentation. This exploration will further uncover the intricate architectural sections and designs that define the Blue Clay Country Spa and contribute to its unique character within the Latvian landscape.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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