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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Ventilation Shape a Retreat Focused on Mindfulness and Wellness

Authors:
Maria Łomiak, Natalia Rajchel, Stanisław Dawidziuk
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Ventilation Shape a Retreat Focused on Mindfulness and Wellness

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and thoughtfully placed cross-ventilation create a serene retreat that facilitates wellness and mindfulness practices in harmony with the surrounding natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced durability and a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and eco-friendliness.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and facilitates airflow.
04
Outdoor meditation areas are seamlessly connected to indoor spaces.
05
Solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems promote sustainability.
The Yoga House, located in Vale de Mors, Portugal, is an architectural project designed to provide a tranquil retreat that seamlessly integrates with its natural environment. This facility serves as a dedicated space for yoga practice, meditation, and social interaction, promoting wellness and mindfulness. The design approach emphasizes a harmonious relationship with the landscape, utilizing sustainable practices to ensure long-term viability.

Spatial Organization
The layout of the Yoga House is carefully considered to interconnect various functional spaces while promoting users' well-being. The arrangement features open areas conducive to yoga and communal gatherings, while private zones are distinctly defined to ensure user privacy. The use of large windows and sliding doors facilitates a visual and physical connection to the outdoors, allowing natural light to flood the interior. This integration of indoor and outdoor spaces enhances the user experience by fostering a sense of openness and connection with nature.

Materiality and Sustainability
The project employs solid brick walls, wooden beams, and ceramic roof tiles, reflecting traditional Portuguese architecture while providing necessary durability and thermal efficiency. The choice of materials contributes to a sustainable design ethos, with timber sourced from environmentally responsible sources. The incorporation of solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system further enhances the sustainability of the Yoga House, aligning with modern architectural practices that prioritize environmental responsibility. This focus on natural materials and sustainability differentiates the Yoga House from more conventional designs.

Design Features and User Experience
The architectural approach incorporates unique design features aimed at enhancing user experience. The implementation of cross-ventilation through strategically placed windows ensures effective cooling, minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. Outdoor meditation areas are designed to foster tranquility, promoting a deeper connection to the surrounding landscape. By prioritizing functionality and user interaction, the Yoga House becomes a space where individuals can cultivate wellness practices in a supportive environment.

For a comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for additional insights on the Yoga House and its thoughtful design strategies.
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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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