The Vale de Moses Yoga Retreat is designed as a peaceful space located in a calm natural setting. It serves as a refuge for mindfulness, meditation, and yoga practices. The overall design is influenced significantly by the sacred number 108, which holds deep meaning in yoga and spirituality. This number shapes the structure's form and layout, represented by two volumes arranged in the figure eight, symbolizing continuity and connection within the practice.

Design Concept

The design incorporates the number 108 as more than a decorative element; it acts as a framework guiding the entire concept. The geometry promotes a feeling of flow and balance throughout the space. The smaller volume contains necessary services such as showers, bathrooms, and a tea point, organized around a central pine tree. This tree not only adds a natural touch but also enhances the experience by connecting users to the outdoors.

Yoga Room

The yoga room, a significant feature of the retreat, is built to accommodate 38 people. This larger space can be closed off for comfort during bad weather, yet it is intended to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages interaction. The room’s shape fosters a communal space, making it easier for individuals to connect with one another. The roof design promotes a relationship with nature by allowing natural light to stream in and connecting the interior with the sky.

Material Use

The walls of the retreat are made primarily from rammed earth, which is a mix of local earth, laterite, clay, sand, and stabilizer. This choice provides beneficial thermal properties while ensuring sustainability through the use of locally sourced materials. Wood is employed for reinforcement, contributing warmth and a natural quality to the environment. Concrete is used for the foundation, providing stability, while steel reinforcement throughout the structure ensures strength and durability.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is an important element in the design. Systems for rainwater collection and landscape irrigation are integrated into the retreat. This encourages a connection to the surroundings, allowing users to engage with nature directly. By permitting rainwater to flow within the yoga house, the design enhances the users' experience and underscores the importance of environmental care.

Large glass panels in the yoga room offer broad views of the landscape, enhancing the feeling of being part of the natural world. This design choice creates a direct relationship between the interior and the outdoor environment, contributing to the overall atmosphere of calm and tranquility.