5 key facts about this project
The Vale de Moses Meditation Cabins are located in the Serra de Estrela mountains of central Portugal, providing a peaceful setting for meditation and wellness activities. Set on a stone terrace carved into the hillside, the cabins promote a strong connection between visitors and their natural environment. The design blends traditional forms with modern features, characterized by a folded butterfly roof that mirrors the landscape's gentle slopes. This thoughtful approach enhances the overall experience of those who come here to relax and find tranquility.
Architecture Concept
- The design focuses on engaging with the surroundings. By incorporating shapes that align with the existing stone farmhouses and the valley's contours, the folded butterfly roofs create a connection with the natural features of the site. Each cabin has a recessed entry that guides visitors from the exterior to a more reflective internal space, setting the tone for relaxation.
Spatial Organization
- Inside, the cabins are carefully arranged to include specific areas for changing, treatment, and meditation. The changing room is conveniently located near the entrance, allowing for an easy transition into the calming environment. A service wall provides necessary facilities while keeping distractions to a minimum in the treatment areas, helping to create a peaceful atmosphere.
Materiality and Details
- Materials used in the cabins include white zinc standing seam roofing, lime render on metal lath, timber battens, and tongue and groove cork flooring. These materials are chosen for their durability as well as their visual appeal. Large windows allow natural light to flood the interior while offering beautiful views of the outside landscape, enhancing each guest's meditative experience.
Integration with Nature
- Every cabin features an outdoor deck that encourages activities such as yoga and forest bathing. The gardens designed between the cabins create spaces for privacy while ensuring a sense of calm. This arrangement allows guests to engage with the landscape continually, reinforcing the retreat's focus on health and well-being.
The play of light through large windows and the warmth of textured surfaces inside each cabin create an inviting environment. This thoughtful design fosters a sense of peace and contemplation for all visitors.