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Blackened Pine Retreat with Central Light Well for Mindful Practices

Authors:
Anna Gudieva, Alexander Gabuev, Anna Gabaraeva
Blackened Pine Retreat with Central Light Well for Mindful Practices
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A central light well illuminates the blackened pine interior, creating a tranquil environment for yoga and meditation within a carefully integrated natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central light well enhances natural illumination throughout the interior.
02
The building features a carbonyl finish that protects the wooden structure and complements the landscape.
03
Rainwater collection systems support sustainable resource management.
04
Panoramic windows offer unobstructed views of the surrounding redwoods and pines.
05
The design includes a rock garden courtyard for quiet reflection and meditation.

The Yoga House on a Cliff is located in the peaceful area of Vale de Moses, Portugal. It serves as a dedicated space for yoga and meditation, designed to foster a connection with nature. The overall concept emphasizes simplicity and balance, creating an environment where users can engage in mindful practices. The building’s design integrates the landscape, allowing visitors to feel at one with their surroundings.

Spatial Organization

The layout consists of various spaces, including a hall, training area, tea room, and shower facilities. Each area is arranged to facilitate smooth movement and interaction among users. Large windows in the main hall allow natural light to flood the interior and offer views of the surrounding trees. This connection to nature enhances the experience of those practicing yoga and meditation inside.

Material Selection

Wood is the main material used throughout the structure, specifically pine. This choice contributes to the warm, inviting atmosphere of the space. The exterior features a carbonyl-protective finish that not only protects the wood but also blends well with the natural environment. This selection of materials ensures that the building is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is a key focus of the design. A rainwater collection system and solar panel are integrated into the project. The solar panel is positioned to capture sunlight efficiently, supplying energy for essential functions within the building. These eco-friendly practices reinforce the project's commitment to minimizing its environmental impact while supporting visitors in their wellness journeys.

The design includes a central courtyard with a rock garden, serving as a tranquil area for reflection and connection to nature. This thoughtful detail creates a welcoming space for visitors, allowing them to pause and take in their surroundings as part of their practice.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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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