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Charred Timber Facade Integrates With Natural Landscape to Serve as a Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Eduardo Dana cohen, Damaso Mayer
Charred Timber Facade Integrates With Natural Landscape to Serve as a Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Featuring a charred timber facade that harmonizes with its natural surroundings, the retreat offers a dedicated space for yoga and wellness, emphasizing sustainability and a connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and fire resistance while creating a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability and reduce the overall carbon footprint.
03
An integrated rainwater collection system supports water conservation for the onsen and restrooms.
04
Large operable glass walls facilitate natural ventilation and connect users with the landscape.
05
The design includes a dedicated aromatherapy garden to enhance sensory experiences.
The architectural project "Tara" is a retreat designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding mountainous landscape. Its primary function is to serve as a space for yoga practice, relaxation, and community engagement while emphasizing sustainability and minimalism. The project seeks to foster a connection between users and nature, promoting wellness through carefully considered design.

The structure comprises two primary blocks that delineate spaces for private retreats and communal activities. This organization enhances user experience by providing distinct environments for individual contemplation and social interaction. The positioning of the building follows the natural contours of the site, reducing visual disruption and creating an organic relationship with the landscape. Large operable glass walls allow for ample natural light and unobstructed views, encouraging a sense of openness and immersion in the environment.

Unique Design Approaches

What sets Tara apart from similar projects is its thoughtful incorporation of sustainability features and sensory experiences. The design includes a rainwater collection system that captures and filters water for use in the onsen and restrooms, demonstrating an effective approach to resource management. Photovoltaic panels enhance energy capture, further aligning the project with sustainable practices.

Additionally, the project features a dedicated aromatherapy garden. This garden enhances the sensory experience, inviting visitors to engage with nature through fragrance and botanical diversity. The inclusion of cross-ventilation principles optimizes airflow, reducing reliance on mechanical systems for temperature regulation.

Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The yoga space is the centerpiece of Tara, characterized by its connection to the exterior through expansive glass. This design element creates continuity with the natural landscape, providing a serene backdrop for meditation and physical practice. Adjacent communal spaces, including the onsen, are strategically placed to encourage interaction while maintaining privacy where needed.

The material selection is crucial in establishing the project's aesthetic and functional qualities. Natural stone, timber, glass, and concrete are used thoughtfully to create a warm ambiance that complements the environment. These materials contribute to the overall thermal comfort and ecological footprint of the project.

For a more in-depth understanding of Tara, the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs offer further insights into the project's specifics. This detailed exploration reveals how the integration of sustainable practices and thoughtful design can create a harmonious balance between built and natural environments. Explore the presentation to appreciate the comprehensive architectural ideas that underpin this project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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