Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Elevate a Tranquil Wellness Retreat in a Scenic Valley

Authors:
Paul Van der voort, Norma aracely Trujillo vicencio, Gabriela Bojalil rébora, Aleksander Cruz Silva
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Elevate a Tranquil Wellness Retreat in a Scenic Valley

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the wellness retreat harmonizes with its valley setting, offering a serene environment dedicated to yoga and meditation practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability and aesthetic warmth.
02
Features a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes panoramic views of the valley.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and visual contrast with the landscape.
04
Includes a sophisticated water management system that repurposes greywater for landscape irrigation.
05
Emphasizes a seamless indoor-outdoor connection through extensive use of glass elements.
The Yoga House on a Cliff is an architectural project situated in Valle de Mozes, an area known for its remarkable natural landscape comprising steep cliffs and rich greenery. This project embodies a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, creating a tranquil environment that supports yoga and meditation practices. The design philosophy is rooted in the idea of fostering a deep connection with the surrounding environment, which is vital for a wellness-focused space.

Functionally, the Yoga House serves as a retreat for individuals seeking to engage in yoga and mindfulness practices. The architectural layout is thoughtfully organized into distinct levels, allowing for a seamless interaction between the built environment and the natural landscape. The main yoga space is elevated, offering expansive views and an abundance of natural light, which enhances the overall experience for practitioners. Below this level, essential facilities such as changing rooms and restrooms are strategically placed to maximize space utilization while maintaining a compact footprint.

The project is characterized by its unique structural design, featuring large, laminated wood arches that provide both aesthetic appeal and structural stability. These arches are complemented by steel profiles, creating a feeling of openness and ensuring durability. The choice of materials plays a significant role in the project’s overall expression. Laminated wood brings warmth to the structure, while steel provides reinforcement and support for wider spans. Additional materials include ceramic shingles for a ventilated facade system, concrete for various structural components, and extensive glass elements that invite the outdoors in, promoting a sense of transparency and connection with the environment.

One notable aspect of the Yoga House is its emphasis on sustainability. The architect has incorporated a ventilated facade featuring ceramic shingles that enhance thermal efficiency, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling. Additionally, the project features integrated sustainability measures, such as solar cells that contribute to energy needs and systems for water retention and filtration from the facility's sanitary functions. This water is strategically reused for irrigation purposes within the landscaping, highlighting the project's commitment to environmental stewardship.

The outdoor spaces surrounding the building are equally important to the overall experience. Landscaping has been designed to complement the natural topography, featuring gardens that rise alongside the structure and vertical elements that incorporate filtered water for irrigation. This thoughtful approach not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the site but also serves practical purposes, contributing to the wellness environment through green spaces that encourage relaxation and mindfulness.

The Yoga House stands as a reflection of a design approach that prioritizes ecological sensitivity while addressing the needs of its users. It moves beyond being just a physical structure; it represents a holistic approach to wellness, mindfulness, and community. Special care has been taken to ensure that the building integrates seamlessly with its surroundings, inviting users to experience the soothing qualities of nature in their practice.

Exploring this project provides a valuable opportunity to understand contemporary architectural practices that celebrate sustainability and mindfulness. For those interested in architectural details, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements will offer deeper insights into the innovative ideas materialized in this tranquil space. The Yoga House not only enriches the landscape of Valle de Mozes but also serves as a model for future wellness-infused architectural endeavors.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy