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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Walls Create a Mindful Yoga Retreat in the Valley

Authors:
Estela Darriba estévez, Guillermo Pomar blanco, Adrián De arriba ramos, Patricia Solla Pedrero
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Walls Create a Mindful Yoga Retreat in the Valley

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a tranquil retreat, seamlessly integrating expansive glass walls that invite nature indoors, creating an environment ideal for mindfulness and yoga practice.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a charred wood technique known as Yakisugi to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates extensive glass walls to create seamless interactions between indoor and outdoor environments.
03
Features a carefully designed pathway that guides users through the natural landscape, fostering a mindful approach to arrival.
04
Employs locally sourced materials to minimize ecological impact and promote sustainability.
05
Includes a multifunctional tea room that encourages community interaction and reflection after yoga sessions.
Nestled in the tranquil confines of the Valley of Moses, this architectural project embodies a yoga retreat designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings. This structure represents not only a place for physical practice and mental tranquility but also an embodiment of sustainable architecture that seeks to enrich the well-being of its users while minimizing environmental impact.

The function of this retreat extends beyond mere physical exercise; it serves as a sanctuary for introspection, relaxation, and community engagement. The carefully planned layout fosters a seamless transition from the hustle of daily life to a serene environment conducive for yoga practice and mindfulness activities. Each element within the project has been meticulously designed to enhance the user experience, drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape and infusing it into the built environment.

Key components of the project include spacious yoga rooms featuring large glass windows that invite natural light and outdoor views, establishing a direct connection with nature. This openness allows participants to feel the elements—air, light, and nature—creating an immersive experience. The use of blackened wood, a technique derived from traditional Japanese architecture, lends a sense of warmth to the yoga spaces while ensuring durability and low maintenance. The stone flooring provides a firm grounding that aids in physical practices, promoting stability and connection to the earth.

Observing the overall design, it is apparent that thoughtful attention was paid to the arrangement of spaces. The pathway leading to the yoga studio is intentionally designed to guide visitors, creating a ritualistic descent into a more reflective mindset. Each turn of the path reveals another breathtaking sight of the valley, gently pulling users into a more mindful state as they approach their destination. The inclusion of a tea room offers a more intimate gathering space, where participants can unwind, share experiences, and foster community ties, further enriching their overall experience.

The architectural design embraces sustainability through its choice of materials and construction techniques. The project prioritizes natural and locally sourced materials which resonate with the principles of ecologically responsible architecture. The use of sustainable steel for structural elements allows for open spaces within the yoga areas, promoting a feeling of freedom and fluidity while maintaining structural integrity. This conscious selection reflects broader architectural trends that prioritize environmental sustainability and wellbeing.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. For instance, the integration of water features adds an auditory dimension that soothes and calms the mind. Coupled with strategically placed trees that provide natural shading and enhance privacy, these elements play significant roles in creating an environment that fosters relaxation and mindfulness. The architectural solutions utilized reflect a deep understanding of the principles of well-being, where every design choice serves a purpose beyond aesthetics.

Additionally, this retreat is designed to accommodate both individual reflective practices and group activities, catering to a diverse range of users. The space encourages connection with the environment and fosters interactions among participants, thus amplifying the overall impact of the retreat experience. By bridging the gap between architecture and nature, the project effectively reinforces the importance of being present and connected with one's surroundings.

As you explore the various facets of this architectural project, consider delving deeper into its architectural plans, sections, and designs. By examining these elements, you will gain a more comprehensive understanding of the thoughtful architectural ideas that underscore this yoga retreat in the Valley of Moses. The project serves as a model for future developments in the realm of wellness and sustainable architecture, inviting participants to cultivate a strong connection with themselves and the natural world around them.
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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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