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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Timber Create a Harmonious Retreat for Meditation

Authors:
Chanachai Panichpattanakij, Inga Sidereviciute, Hizkia firsto Giovanni
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Timber Create a Harmonious Retreat for Meditation

Project in-detail

Nestled among the contours of the Vale De Moses, the retreat's design uniquely integrates charred wooden shingles and local timber within a serene landscape, offering tranquil spaces for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The retreat features charred wooden shingles that enhance durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for both structural integrity and thermal efficiency.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light penetration and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Hidden corridors connect the meditation cabins, facilitating seamless movement while maintaining privacy.
05
Reflective ponds are integrated into the site to promote tranquility and enhance the natural environment.
The Tulā project is an architectural design initiative located in the picturesque Vale De Moses region, aiming to create a harmonious space for meditation and wellness practices. The term “Tulā,” originating from Sanskrit, symbolizes balance, a core principle that permeates the project's design and intent. This architectural endeavor seeks to provide a sanctuary where individuals can engage in meditation, yoga, and introspection, ideally situated within its natural surroundings.

The project represents an earnest response to contemporary needs for tranquility and restoration, focusing on wellness. It demonstrates how architecture can serve a broader purpose by integrating spaces for healing and reflection within a stunning landscape. The primary function of the Tulā project is to offer a retreat for visitors seeking a reprieve from the chaos of daily life, fostering an environment conducive to mental and physical well-being.

The design utilizes the existing topography of the site, allowing the buildings to blend seamlessly with their environment. A defining feature is the 12-meter-long sloped staircase that gradually leads guests from the main building to the meditation cabins. This approach not only enhances accessibility but also provides a sensory experience as visitors transition from the communal areas to their personal retreats. The careful placement of meditation cabins along the slope ensures that every unit captures breathtaking views of the valley, reinforcing the connection between the occupants and their surroundings.

Each of the six meditation cabins showcases a thoughtful configuration meant to minimize their ecological footprint while maximizing user experience. The layout includes hidden corridors that link the cabins, allowing for private passage between spaces without disrupting the tranquil atmosphere. This design reflects an understanding of the importance of both solitude and interconnectedness during the experience of meditation and reflection.

The architectural design places significant emphasis on outdoor spaces dedicated to meditation. These areas are naturally integrated into the landscape, utilizing the contours of the land to create immersive environments that encourage connection with nature. Furthermore, the incorporation of reflective ponds serves not only as visual focal points but also as calming elements that enhance the overall experience of the retreat.

The Tulā project is particularly noteworthy for its materiality. The selection of local timber for cabin construction not only provides warmth and aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the sustainability of the project by reducing transportation emissions. Large glass panels are strategically utilized to maintain a strong visual connection with the exterior, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors, while concrete elements ensure structural integrity and durability. These materials were chosen not just for their practicality but also for their ability to resonate with the natural environment, supporting the overarching theme of balance.

Unique design approaches within the Tulā project include the implementation of water management systems aimed at sustainability. These systems are designed to effectively manage rainwater, incorporating filtration ponds that promote ecological health within the area. Such an initiative underlines the commitment to preserving the integrity of the natural landscape while also addressing practical concerns about water use and sustainability.

The Tulā project stands out as a thoughtful approach to architecture tailored to the needs of its users and the environment. Its intentional design choices reflect a contemporary understanding of wellness and the integral relationship between built and natural spaces. By focusing on user experience, sustainable practices, and aesthetic coherence, the project not only serves its function as a retreat but also embodies the principles of responsible architectural design.

For those interested in exploring this architectural project further, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas that shaped the Tulā project. Be sure to delve into the specifics to appreciate how the unique elements of this initiative come together to create a harmonious retreat in the Vale De Moses region.
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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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