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Charred Wooden Shingles and Bioclimatic Design Shape a Sustainable Wellness Retreat

Author:
Luis alejandro Avalos martinez

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and framed by bioclimatic design principles, the yoga house harmonizes with its natural surroundings to create a tranquil retreat for wellness and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural stability while promoting sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and a unique aesthetic that blends with the landscape.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light entry and acoustic qualities within the space.
04
Designed with bioclimatic principles to utilize passive heating and cooling strategies effectively.
05
Includes transitional outdoor spaces to encourage a seamless connection between nature and wellness activities.
The Vale de Moses Yoga House represents a thoughtful exploration of architecture that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. Situated in a tranquil landscape, this project is designed as a retreat that emphasizes wellness through yoga and meditation. The architectural design is deeply rooted in the principles of sustainability and mindfulness, creating a serene space where visitors can reconnect with themselves and the environment.

Central to the project’s function is a highly adaptable layout that caters to the diverse needs of its users. The primary space, dedicated to yoga practices, encourages a sense of openness and fluidity, inviting practitioners to immerse themselves in their surroundings. The configuration of the space allows for flexible use, making it suitable for classes, workshops, or individual practice. This versatility is a fundamental aspect of the design, ensuring that the structure can accommodate various activities while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere conducive to relaxation and introspection.

One of the significant design features is the extensive use of natural materials, including wood, stone, and glass. The incorporation of wooden slats into the design not only provides structural integrity but also introduces a warmth that fosters a welcoming environment. These wooden elements allow light to trickle in while creating interesting patterns of shadow and light throughout the interior space. Similarly, the use of stone adds a tactile quality that grounds the structure, connecting it physically and aesthetically to the earth. Expansive glass surfaces enhance the sense of openness, fostering an unobstructed view of the lush landscape and allowing natural light to fill the interiors.

The architecture embraces sustainability through its bioclimatic design principles. Thoughtful orientation of the building takes advantage of solar access, naturally lighting the space while reducing reliance on artificial lighting. This approach also allows for natural ventilation, creating a comfortable indoor climate that harmonizes with the seasonal changes in the environment. The building's interaction with its surroundings is carefully considered, minimizing disruption to the existing landscape while highlighting the beauty of the natural setting.

Distinctive transitional spaces feature prominently in the design, encouraging visitors to engage with the outdoors before entering the main structure. These gardens and landscaped areas not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the project but also serve as essential elements that promote a meditative experience. The inclusion of these outdoor spaces allows individuals to immerse themselves in nature, preparing them for the practices they will engage in within the main studio.

This architectural project stands as a testament to the importance of creating spaces that nurture both body and mind. By blending modern architectural techniques with traditional materials, the Vale de Moses Yoga House showcases a unique design approach that emphasizes functionality, sustainability, and environmental sensitivity. Each element of the design is thoughtfully curated to support the overall mission of wellness and mindfulness.

For those interested in diving deeper into the architectural aspects of this project, I encourage you to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented. Each of these components provides further insight into the thought process behind the project, highlighting innovative architectural ideas and details that contribute to this distinctive sanctuary for well-being.
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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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