We’re pleased to announce that RH Carter’s submission to Buildner’s Portugal Vez River SPA design competition received a shortlist placement.

For this competition, architects were tasked with reimagining an existing site and its infrastructure: an old water mill in northern Portugal, transformed into a wellness retreat. Proposals were to incorporate prebuilt modules for a sauna, jacuzzi, Turkish bath, massage rooms, gym, and pool—while preserving the quiet charm and ecological sensitivity of the site. The competition emphasized sustainability, material honesty, and a deep respect for place.

RH Carter’s team approached the challenge with care and intentionality. Their design, titled Aqua Tranquilla (Latin for “calm water”), draws inspiration from the region’s identity and the legacy of the historical watermill. The spa concept blends heritage with contemporary aesthetics, reinterpreting traditional forms to create an atmosphere that feels both familiar and timeless.

The two-floor spa design prominently features arches—a choice that evokes the movement of water while subtly referencing the doors of espigueiros, grain stores common in northern Portugal. Material selections were equally deliberate: biophilic and sustainable elements such as cork and microcrete were chosen to ensure the spa feels naturally integrated into its surroundings.

At RH Carter, we encourage our team to participate in design competitions as a way to push creative boundaries in a low-stakes environment; firm partner Shawn Houghtling says,

"There are so many benefits for RH Carter Architects to take part in architectural competitions, but when you have such a great team, it is just exhilarating to let the designers break from the limitations of their day-to-day work to explore new concepts and flex their creative muscles.”

We extend our thanks to the competition organizers and jury for recognizing our proposal, and we congratulate the other competitors for their exceptional designs.

View the competition results here.