Phase 2: The Grotto

Subterranean civil engineering. Constructing the hydrothermal wellness core utilizing "Earth-Sheltered" methodology to ensure thermal stability and landscape integration.

Total Phase Capital
$1,834,000
Excavation & Shell.
Key Method
Cut-and-Cover
Utilizing Alec Mtn slope.
Key Asset
Hydrothermal Core
Hot/Cold Plunges & Sauna.

Detailed Execution Process

Technical deployment of the subterranean wellness facility.

Surgical Excavation & Retaining

Earth Works

$650,000
  • Topography Utilization: Using the natural grade of the Clarkesville estate to "tuck" the Grotto into the hillside, minimizing off-site soil export.
  • Shotcrete Stabilization: Applying structural shotcrete to the excavated hillside to create an immediate, permanent retaining wall that forms the back of the facility.
  • Drainage Plane: Installing a redundant hydrostatic relief system behind the walls to channel mountain runoff away from the structure, ensuring a dry interior.

Thermal Mass Concrete Shell

Structure

$784,000
  • High-Fly Ash Mix: Using a specialized concrete mix with high fly-ash content to reduce carbon footprint and increase water resistance.
  • Board-Form Finish: Casting the visible interior walls against rough-sawn timber to imprint a wood grain texture, softening the brutalist aesthetic with organic detail.
  • Green Roof Deck: Pouring a heavy-duty roof slab capable of supporting 24 inches of soil and native planting, effectively vanishing the building from overhead view.

Hydrothermal Systems Integration

The Engine

$400,000
  • Geothermal Loop: Tie-in to the estate's geothermal field to passively heat the soaking pools and cool the structure.
  • Filtration Core: Installation of UV and Ozone filtration systems (reducing chemical use) in a dedicated, sound-proofed mechanical vault.
  • Heat Recovery: Capturing waste heat from the sauna exhaust to pre-heat the water for the soaking tubs.
Total Phase 2 Deployment
$1,834,000