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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Serene Wellness Retreat in Harmony With Nature

Authors:
Jorge Moreno carrera, Marina Bando martín, Belén Gasset Elices
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Serene Wellness Retreat in Harmony With Nature

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop the serene spaces crafted from cross-laminated timber panels, creating a refuge that harmonizes with its natural surroundings and invites guests to experience deep relaxation and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a unique texture and finish.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to the building's sustainability and energy efficiency.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for increased interior space while maintaining a streamlined silhouette.
04
Integrative pathways within the landscape promote exploration and connection with nature.
05
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed glass elements, enhancing the indoor atmosphere.
The architectural project known as "Savasana" presents a thoughtful approach to the design of a wellness retreat, integrating principles of sustainability with the aim of creating a serene environment for relaxation and mindfulness. This design emphasizes the connection between built spaces and the natural landscape, fostering a harmonious interaction that encourages visitors to unwind and reflect. The retreat serves as a sanctuary, providing spaces dedicated to yoga, meditation, and personal introspection.

At its core, "Savasana" embodies a concept that prioritizes the user's experience and well-being. The architecture is not only a functional space but also a representation of mental and physical health, inviting individuals to escape the pace of everyday life. The layout of the retreat is systematically organized to facilitate movement and engagement with various wellness practices. The circular forms utilized in the design echo the organic shapes found in nature, further embedding the retreat within its environment.

Materiality plays a significant role in the project’s identity. The predominant use of sustainably sourced wood enhances the retreat's warmth and character, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation. Floor-to-ceiling glass elements maximize natural light and offer unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of their surroundings. The inclusion of stone and concrete within structural elements provides both durability and a grounded feeling, reinforcing the retreat’s connection to the earth.

The design incorporates outdoor areas that foster connectivity with nature. A communal fire pit serves as a focal point, allowing for gatherings and social interaction, which is essential for cultivating a sense of community among visitors. Pathways meandering through the landscape encourage exploration and contemplation, enhancing the overall experience. The positioning of the building is strategic, taking advantage of the site's natural topography to ensure privacy and tranquility for its users.

Interior spaces have been meticulously crafted to support multifunctionality, accommodating various activities from yoga sessions to workshops. The thoughtful arrangement of furniture supports flexibility, allowing users to adapt spaces to suit their needs. Natural lighting is expertly harnessed, creating dynamic atmospheres that change throughout the day, while adjustable lighting fixtures facilitate a calming ambiance in the evening.

Unique design approaches in "Savasana" center around integrating architectural elements with a strong focus on mental well-being and environmental responsiveness. The project embodies the principles of biophilic design, establishing a seamless relationship between indoor spaces and the outdoors. Every detail, from material selection to spatial organization, reflects a commitment to creating an environment conducive to relaxation and personal growth.

Exploring this project further will reveal additional architectural plans, sections, and designs that highlight the nuanced ideas embedded within "Savasana." The intricate details of the retreat's architecture provide an insightful look into how design can effectively promote well-being. For those interested in understanding the project's full scope and the architectural ideas that shaped it, a deeper exploration of its presentation is highly encouraged.
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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
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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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