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Charred Wooden Facade And Green Roof Integration In A Mountain Retreat For Wellness

Author:
Filomena Visone
Charred Wooden Facade And Green Roof Integration In A Mountain Retreat For Wellness

Project in-detail

A charred wooden facade seamlessly blends with a green roof, creating a tranquil yoga retreat that harmonizes with its mountainous surroundings while prioritizing sustainability and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facade utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability while blending with the natural surroundings.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed to create a lightweight yet strong structural system that maximizes interior space.
03
An integrated green roof fosters biodiversity and aids in rainwater management while providing natural insulation.
04
The design features large openings that promote natural ventilation and flood the space with daylight, connecting occupants with the outdoors.
05
Meditation zones are strategically placed for privacy and serenity, offering tranquil views of the surrounding mountains.
The architectural design project is a thoughtfully conceived yoga retreat set in a picturesque mountainous landscape, embodying a unique blend of nature and wellness. The project represents a commitment to promoting holistic health through well-designed spaces that foster both community and solitude. It serves as a sanctuary where individuals can engage in yoga, meditation, and self-reflection, ultimately enhancing their physical and mental well-being.

The architecture of the retreat is influenced by the natural undulations of the surrounding mountains, capturing the essence of the landscape in its form. The design emphasizes the importance of harmonizing with the environment, as seen in its organic lines and contours that mimic the topography. These design elements create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing occupants to connect more deeply with nature.

Functionally, the retreat is organized into distinct areas that cater to various needs while ensuring a cohesive experience. The ground floor includes a spacious indoor yoga room, designed for classes and individual practice. Large openings in the facade invite natural light, establishing a serene atmosphere that supports mindfulness. Adjacent to the yoga room is the kitchenette and social area, which encourages gatherings and community interaction, an essential component of the retreat's ethos. Practical spaces such as storage and bathrooms are thoughtfully integrated to enhance visitor comfort and convenience.

On the first floor, the design shifts towards more private zones. An outdoor yoga terrace extends the practice space into the landscape, allowing participants to engage in yoga sessions amidst the natural beauty that surrounds them. Additionally, secluded meditation areas are strategically placed to provide moments of solitude and introspection, reinforcing the retreat's goal of promoting well-being.

The unique design approaches employed in this project include a careful consideration of materiality and sustainability. A selection of materials was chosen to not only harmonize with the surrounding landscape but also to enhance the functional performance of the building. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, providing durability and thermal mass, while local stone is used for the facade, establishing a direct connection with the site's geology. Extensive use of glass fosters transparency and creates visual links between interior spaces and the outdoors. Warm wooden finishes enrich the interiors, bringing a touch of nature inside and adding to the overall sensory experience.

The project also incorporates sustainable design strategies that contribute to its environmental responsibility. Natural ventilation is achieved through the thoughtful placement of windows and openings, minimizing reliance on mechanical systems. Rainwater harvesting systems are designed to collect and utilize water, promoting efficient resource management. The thermal performance of the concrete and the inclusion of green roof systems further underscore the architectural commitment to sustainability.

In summary, this architectural design project successfully merges function, aesthetics, and environmental consciousness to create a yoga retreat that resonates with its natural surroundings. It provides a space where individuals can immerse themselves in practices that enhance their overall well-being. For a more in-depth exploration of this project, including the architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, readers are encouraged to delve into the presentation of the project. By examining the details of the design, one can appreciate the thoughtful intentions behind its creation and the meaningful experiences it offers to its users.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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