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Charred Wood Facade and Circular Layout Create a Community-Focused Yoga Retreat

Authors:
Sofya Smirnova, Marianna-janika Gontšar, Oksana Karula, Endri Soomere
Charred Wood Facade and Circular Layout Create a Community-Focused Yoga Retreat

Project in-detail

The charred wood facade and circular design of this retreat harmonize with the surrounding forest to create a serene environment dedicated to yoga and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing aesthetic contrast.
02
Circular layout optimizes space for community engagement and yoga activities.
03
Sustainable materials support environmental goals and reduce ecological footprints.
04
Natural light floods the interior through strategically placed windows in the design.
05
Overhanging roof provides shade and integrates with the surrounding landscape.
The Kolka Cabin is a contemporary architectural project located in Cape Kolka, Latvia. Designed to serve as a community-focused yoga studio and retreat space, the cabin embodies principles of unity and mindfulness integral to yoga practice. The structure emphasizes a seamless integration with its natural surroundings, responding to both environmental and user needs.

The architectural design features a circular layout that fosters a fluid transition between spaces. The central yoga studio is deliberately positioned to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding forest, allowing for an immersive experience with nature. This focus on natural elements extends to the selection of materials, which include green concrete, timber, glass, and insulation with recycled components.

Sustainable Design Approaches

A defining aspect of the Kolka Cabin's design is its commitment to sustainability. The use of green concrete significantly reduces environmental impact compared to traditional concrete, while the timber facade serves to enhance thermal efficiency. The overhanging roof provides shade, facilitating user comfort in varying weather conditions. Notably, the building's design ensures that all aspects are in harmony with the local ecosystem, prioritizing minimal disturbance to the site.

The unique circular configuration is not only an aesthetic choice but also functions to optimize space utilization and enhance user experience. Each segment of the cabin serves a distinct purpose yet connects easily to create a cohesive environment. The careful arrangement of interior elements underscores the project's focus on community interaction while allowing for private reflection.

Interior Layout and Functionality

Inside the Kolka Cabin, spatial division is carefully considered. The central yoga studio is complemented by common areas designed for socialization and collaboration. Private rooms are strategically placed to create a sense of intimacy and security, featuring smaller ceiling heights to enhance comfort. The building’s design permits year-round use, catering to community needs for wellness practices and shared activities.

The facade is another noteworthy element, achieved through an innovative use of timber slats that create visual interest and variability in light patterns. This layered approach not only addresses privacy concerns but also reinforces the connection to the surrounding forest environment.

For further insights into the Kolka Cabin’s design, architectural plans, sections, and specific architectural ideas are available for review, showcasing the thoughtful details and considerations that drive this project. Explore the architectural designs behind the Kolka Cabin to understand its functionality and aesthetic contributions to its setting.
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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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