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Cantilevered Glass Structure Embracing Nature in Mountainous Landscape

Authors:
Giuseppe Vultaggio, Weiwei Mao
Cantilevered Glass Structure Embracing Nature in Mountainous Landscape

Project in-detail

A cantilevered glass structure harmoniously extends above a mountainous landscape, utilizing natural wood and stone while incorporating interstitial spaces to enhance the experience of yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered platforms create open spaces that elevate the structure above the ground.
02
Engawa spaces invite interaction with the natural environment, merging indoor and outdoor experience.
03
A central glass yoga area provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Natural wood and stone materials enhance sustainability and environmental integration.
05
Landscaping features include zen gardens and meditative points to promote mindfulness.

The Yoga House is a unique design positioned in a mountainous area, emphasizing a connection with nature. Its structure consists of two platforms that hover above the ground, creating a space intended for yoga and meditation. The project encourages users to interact with the forest environment, promoting a sense of calm and mindfulness. The design concept focuses on harmonizing the building with its setting while providing functional spaces for its intended activities.

Architectural Concept

The building's layout showcases a deliberate arrangement of spaces, with an emphasis on how energy flows within the structure. A main yoga area is located at the center, crafted within a glass-enclosed space that allows for abundant natural light. Surrounding this core are essential facilities, including changing rooms, showers, toilets, a kitchenette, and storage. This thoughtful organization ensures that all necessary elements are accessible while keeping the design coherent and focused on its purpose.

Engawa and Transitional Spaces

A distinctive aspect of the Yoga House is the use of interstitial spaces, known as "Engawa." These areas bridge the indoor and outdoor environments, inviting users to experience the beauty of the surrounding landscape. By incorporating these transitional spaces, the design blurs the boundary between the built form and its natural setting. This approach fosters a deeper connection for users during their yoga and meditation, allowing them to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.

Landscape Integration

The landscaping surrounding the Yoga House enhances its overall design and user experience. Features such as the Komorebi zen garden, raised zen garden, sculpture garden, and meditation point are thoughtfully arranged to promote relaxation and reflection. These elements create a tranquil atmosphere that aligns with the building's purpose, allowing participants to fully engage with their environment and cultivate mindfulness.

Materiality and Sustainability

The architectural plans illustrate a focus on sustainability, incorporating natural materials like wood and stones. These choices enhance the building’s visual appeal while also supporting its environmental performance. The design reflects a consideration for the ecological context, fostering a responsible relationship with the landscape.

Sculptures positioned at the center of the upper platform provide shade and serve a functional role by supporting solar panels. This integration of artwork not only enriches the space but also aligns with sustainable practices, reinforcing the project's commitment to environmental awareness.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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