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Zinc Roofing and Board-Formed Concrete Create a Serene Wellness Retreat in Nature

Authors:
Michael Blakemore, Victoria Blakemore, Ernesto Gaeta
Zinc Roofing and Board-Formed Concrete Create a Serene Wellness Retreat in Nature
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With board-formed concrete accents and a durable zinc roof, the design embodies a harmonious blend of sustainability and tranquility, creating a dedicated space for rejuvenation and wellness within a natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features board-formed concrete fireplaces that serve as central design elements.
02
Incorporates a durable zinc standing seam roof, enhancing longevity and aesthetics.
03
Utilizes large ridge skylights to maximize natural light and connection to the outdoors.
04
Includes outdoor therapy areas that immerse guests in the natural environment.
05
Employs water harvesting systems for efficient resource management and sustainability.

### Project Overview

Located in a tranquil natural setting, the Blue Clay Country Spa is designed as a retreat focused on wellness and relaxation. The architectural concept reflects a harmonious blend of modern design and traditional rural forms, creating an inviting atmosphere that emphasizes comfort and simplicity. The layout includes a spa, guesthouse, caretaker cottage, barn, and farm, all oriented around a central lobby to enhance connectivity among the various spaces.

### Spatial Organization and Features

The spatial arrangement prioritizes functionality while encouraging social interaction among guests. The symmetrical layout around the central lobby facilitates a flow between the different areas, enhancing the overall experience. Key amenities include multiple treatment rooms, wellness facilities, and outdoor therapy areas that integrate the natural surroundings into the user experience. Additionally, the guesthouse is strategically placed to provide privacy while remaining close to the main spa facilities.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project utilizes a variety of materials that enhance both aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability. Horizontal wood siding provides warmth and organic texture, linking the structures to the landscape, while a zinc standing seam roof contributes durability and a modern aesthetic. Board-formed concrete fireplaces serve as focal points throughout the interiors, and natural grey stone veneer complements the wooden elements, enriching the earthy ambiance.

Sustainability is a core component of the design, with features such as a water harvesting system and roof-mounted photovoltaic systems that reduce the carbon footprint. The use of locally sourced materials further minimizes environmental impact, demonstrating a commitment to ecological responsibility throughout the project's development.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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