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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Serenity in a Cliffside Wellness Retreat

Author:
Sara Redlarska
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Serenity in a Cliffside Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Nestled among cliffs, charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber create a tranquil aesthetic for a wellness retreat focused on yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Integrates a greywater recycling system for sustainable water management.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that reduce the building's carbon footprint.
04
Includes a yoga classroom with expansive glass walls for unobstructed views of the landscape.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and ventilation.
The Yoga House project exemplifies a contemporary approach to architecture that emphasizes harmony between the built environment and nature while catering to the specific needs of its users. Positioned on a cliff, this architectural design serves as a retreat focused on yoga and meditation, appealing to those seeking balance and tranquility in their lives. The project not only fulfills a functional purpose but also represents a mindset geared toward wellness and sustainability in architectural practice.

The design of the Yoga House reflects a thoughtfully curated experience that combines open spaces with intimate areas for contemplation and practice. The yoga classroom occupies a central role, designed to accommodate up to thirty-six participants. Its generous area of 100 square meters allows for a flexible layout that can adapt to various class formats. The walls of the classroom feature expansive glass panels, maximizing natural light while providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape. This connection to nature is a critical aspect of the project, enhancing the overall experience of the practitioners.

Adjacent to the yoga classroom, the meditation room offers a contrasting, more intimate setting. This space is carefully designed to minimize light and sound, fostering an environment conducive to deep concentration and introspection. The intentional use of materials in the meditation space, including soft textures and subdued colors, reinforces this soothing atmosphere, inviting users to engage in their practice without distraction.

A small cafeteria and relaxation area within the Yoga House provide essential services for visitors, allowing them to recharge and engage in community interaction. These spaces are seamlessly connected to outdoor terraces, promoting an indoor-outdoor lifestyle that aligns well with the retreat's holistic approach. By integrating lush landscaping and open-air areas, the design encourages users to immerse themselves in the natural environment, which is beneficial for both mental and physical well-being.

Materiality plays a key role in the Yoga House project, with a strong focus on employing sustainable and eco-friendly resources. The architecture prominently features cross-laminated timber, which serves as both a structural element and a visual component, embodying the warm, natural aesthetic characteristic of the design. Mass plywood panels are also utilized to improve thermal efficiency, contributing to the overall sustainability of the building. This combination of materials not only reduces the carbon footprint of the structure but also fosters a sense of connection to the surroundings.

The architectural design implements several innovative strategies to minimize environmental impact. The southern-facing roof incorporates photovoltaic panels, enabling the building to generate its own energy. This sustainable design element aligns with the project’s overarching goal of promoting eco-conscious living. Furthermore, a greywater recycling system has been integrated, reflecting a commitment to resource conservation and environmental stewardship.

In exploring the unique design approaches taken in the Yoga House, it is vital to highlight the strategic management of light within the space. In the yoga classroom, large glass panels allow for abundant daylight while providing stunning views that enhance the user experience. In contrast, the meditation room employs minimal lighting to cultivate a sense of calm and quietude. This thoughtful interplay between light and space is key to shaping the atmosphere and fostering a conducive environment for yoga and meditation.

The Yoga House also exemplifies an architectural philosophy that prioritizes functionality without sacrificing aesthetics. Each space is intentionally designed, ensuring that it serves its purpose effectively while still adhering to an overall vision of tranquility and connection with nature. The project's layout and design decisions work in harmony to create a fluid movement throughout the building, further enhancing the user's experience.

Overall, the Yoga House is a testament to modern architectural ideas that prioritize wellness, sustainability, and integration with the natural landscape. Its well-considered design and use of materials position it as an exemplar of how architecture can adapt to meet the needs of its users while promoting environmental responsibility. For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other design elements that define this project, further exploration of the presentation will provide enhanced insights into its unique offerings and thoughtful execution.
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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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