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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

Project in-detail

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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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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