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Ascending Spiral Retreat with Cross-Laminated Timber and Natural Wood Elements

Authors:
David Král, Ondřej Kurečka, Martin Kovář
Ascending Spiral Retreat with Cross-Laminated Timber and Natural Wood Elements
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With an ascending spiral design that integrates the surrounding sloping terrain and utilizes cross-laminated timber, the retreat offers a tranquil space for wellness and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Ascending spiral layout encourages natural movement and exploration.
02
Cross-laminated timber construction enhances sustainability and structural integrity.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and aesthetic warmth.
04
Design incorporates meditation rooms with expansive views of the landscape.
05
Building footprint adapts to the sloping terrain for minimal environmental impact.

Vale de Moses is located in a landscape marked by its gentle hills, providing a unique setting for a center focused on wellness and personal growth. The center's design is centered around the concept of an ascending spiral, which represents the journey individuals take toward spiritual and physical enhancement. As visitors navigate through the space, they engage in various activities, including yoga and meditation, that promote self-discovery and connection with nature.

Architectural Concept

The layout of Vale de Moses consists of pathways that guide users through distinct stages of their experience. The spiral design encourages movement, leading individuals from their initial arrival to deeper exploration of their inner selves. Each space is purposefully arranged to foster a calm atmosphere, allowing users to connect with both their surroundings and their own thoughts. The flow of the design facilitates personal growth while emphasizing the importance of a tranquil environment.

Spatial Organization

Accommodation areas are thoughtfully positioned to provide a welcoming start for visitors. These spaces allow guests to relax and settle in before engaging with the center's offerings. Following this initial phase, the design features areas for insight and reflection, focusing on meditation and personal exploration. Each of these designated spaces enhances the overall experience and encourages individuals to reflect on their well-being and the world around them.

Materiality and Sustainability

Materials selected for Vale de Moses reflect a focus on sustainability and a thoughtful relationship with the environment. Elements such as wooden shingles, wood battens, and cross-laminated timber wall panels are used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. These materials are chosen not only for their durability but also for their ability to blend harmoniously with the natural landscape, enhancing visitors' experience while creating a responsible built environment.

Design Outcome

The expansion of the yoga center introduces new facilities that broaden the opportunities for community interaction while maintaining a consistent visual language. The design carefully considers the relationship between spaces to promote connection among guests. Every aspect—from the layout to the choice of materials—supports the goal of fostering wellness. Attention to detail is evident in the terrace area, which offers wide views of the surrounding landscape, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on their journey amidst nature.

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Celebrating Visionary Design: The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026

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Competition organisers

The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026 celebrates visionary unbuilt architectural projects that explore creativity and innovation. Open to architects, designers, and students worldwide, the competition welcomes submissions in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²).

With a total prize fund of €100,000, each category winner receives €20,000, alongside student prizes of €5,000 and a €10,000 Best Presentation Award. Winners will also be featured internationally and presented with the Continuum Trophy designed by Germans Ermičs.

Registration runs from 31 October 2025 to 23 September 2026, with submissions due by 20 October 2026 and results announced on 1 December 2026. More information is available at architecturecompetitions.com 

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 September 2026

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