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Charred Timber Pavilion Integrating Zen Spaces for Outdoor Yoga

Author:
Jaime Martin rivera
Charred Timber Pavilion Integrating Zen Spaces for Outdoor Yoga

Project in-detail

Constructed using charred timber, a longitudinal pavilion provides flexible indoor and outdoor spaces that promote yoga and meditation while harmonizing with the surrounding natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Longitudinal pavilion design enhances indoor-outdoor flow for yoga practices.
02
Charred timber envelope reflects local building traditions and climate response.
03
Split-level layout maximizes valley views while promoting social interaction.
04
Natural light floods the yoga studio through strategically placed openings.
05
Zen garden integrated to enhance mindfulness and connection with nature.

The project integrates with its natural surroundings, taking advantage of the site’s topography and vegetation to create a peaceful environment for yoga and meditation. Located in a tranquil landscape, it features a longitudinal pavilion that serves as the main element of the design. Visitors can enter from either end, leading to a semi-external space that blends indoor and outdoor areas effectively. This clear design concept emphasizes functionality while fostering a connection with nature, enhancing the experience for all who use it.

Longitudinal Pavilion

The pavilion forms the heart of the design, shaping how people move through the space and experience it. It offers a sensory journey that transitions visitors into a yoga practice mindset. The pavilion draws inspiration from traditional Japanese Engawa, highlighting the importance of the relationship between the building and its natural surroundings. This approach cultivates a sense of intimacy and reflection.

Envelope and Spatial Relationship

The external envelope of the building establishes a warm and inviting threshold. It creates a distinct zone that embodies the essence of the landscape it occupies. The façade’s rhythmic detailing reflects the nearby pine forest, while its horizontal alignment focuses on blending with the surrounding natural context. Depending on where one stands, the pavilion appears differently, providing a dynamic interaction with the environment.

Split-Level Design

A split-level layout makes use of the site’s elevation, creating a large outdoor platform that opens up views of the valley. This arrangement supports outdoor yoga activities and offers a communal area for social gatherings. Inside, the main yoga studio is positioned at the highest level. This layout allows for various atmospheric conditions that cater to different styles of practice, balancing privacy with community engagement.

Facilities and Functional Spaces

The design includes various facilities that contribute to user comfort and practical use. Features such as solar storage batteries, dry toilets, and changing areas are seamlessly integrated. In addition, a zen garden and a tea room enhance the experience, promoting relaxation and social interaction. The yoga studio’s simplicity and warm nature connect with the outdoors, allowing light to filter in and create a calming environment.

The elevated terrace strengthens the relationship with nature, providing space for outdoor yoga sessions. This space actively engages with the landscape while facilitating social connection. The combination of a ceramic tile roof and charred timber elements adds texture and depth, reinforcing both aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility in the design.

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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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