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Charred Wood Facade and Glazed Walls Create a Tranquil Retreat for Mindfulness Practice

Author:
Erida Bendo
Charred Wood Facade and Glazed Walls Create a Tranquil Retreat for Mindfulness Practice

Project in-detail

With a captivating charred wood facade that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, this yoga house provides a serene environment for mindfulness and wellness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
The charred wood facade not only enhances aesthetics but also improves durability and weather resistance.
02
Large glazed walls create a visual connection to the surrounding landscape, promoting interaction with nature.
03
Incorporation of a meditation garden designed to reflect the local topography enhances the holistic experience.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes solar exposure for energy efficiency and passive heating.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems support sustainable irrigation for the surrounding gardens and plant life.
The Drishti Yoga House is an architectural project that embodies the seamless integration of design, nature, and wellness, with a focus on creating a tranquil environment for yoga practitioners. Located in a picturesque setting that enhances the building's overall appeal, this project emphasizes the importance of aligning architecture with its natural surroundings. The design stands as a manifestation of the principles of well-being and mindfulness, inviting users to engage both physically and spiritually in their practice.

This yoga house functions as a dedicated space for yoga classes, meditation, and community gatherings, promoting a holistic lifestyle. The architectural framework is organized to facilitate various activities while fostering an atmosphere of peace and introspection. Central to the project is a spacious practice area, designed with an open layout that not only accommodates different styles of yoga but also allows for the flow of natural light, creating a warm and inviting environment. This connection to nature is reinforced through the large glazed curtain walls that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, drawing the outdoors into the interior experience.

The meditation garden serves as a pivotal feature of the Drishti Yoga House, providing a serene retreat for users to reflect and unwind. This outdoor space has been meticulously designed to complement the architectural dynamics of the building, featuring pathways and platforms that mimic the natural topography. The garden enhances the overall experience by allowing practitioners to immerse themselves in nature, reinforcing the connection between yoga, mindfulness, and the environment.

In terms of materiality, the project employs several key elements that reflect a commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship. Charred wood panels, used for the exterior cladding through the traditional Shou Sugi Ban technique, not only offer aesthetic appeal but also ensure durability and weather resistance. This choice aligns with the project’s ethos of harmony with nature, avoiding sharp contrasts and instead fostering a timeless relationship between the structure and its surroundings. Additionally, the use of a robust metal framework allows for efficient construction while minimizing ecological disruption.

The floor levels, constructed with concrete, provide structural stability while seamlessly blending into the natural environment. This choice of materials is complemented by thoughtful insulation systems that enhance the building’s energy efficiency, demonstrating a responsible approach to resource use. The design incorporates advanced passive cooling and heating strategies, ensuring the indoor climate remains comfortable throughout the year.

Another distinctive feature of the Drishti Yoga House is its approach to orientation and solar access. The roof design is inclined strategically to allow the installation of solar panels, promoting renewable energy generation for the facility. Coupled with a rainwater collection system, the project showcases a comprehensive mindfulness about resource management, encouraging sustainable practices among its users.

Furthermore, the spatial organization enhances user experience, with clearly defined pathways that encourage movement and exploration. The interplay between internal and external spaces promotes community interaction, allowing users to engage in various activities while remaining connected to the natural world. This layout reflects an innovative architectural idea—where different zones are not only functionally connected but are also visually and experientially cohesive.

The Drishti Yoga House ultimately presents a refreshing approach to architectural design by prioritizing wellness, sustainability, and natural integration. It serves as a reminder of the importance of creating spaces that nurture both the body and the spirit, free from the distractions of modern life. For those interested in exploring the intricate details and architectural considerations of this project further, it is encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs that elucidate the thoughtful ideas underpinning this inviting space.
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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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