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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Integration in a Mindfulness Retreat

Authors:
Guillermo Garcia Hernandez, César Villegas
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Integration in a Mindfulness Retreat
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and natural stone, the design creates a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape, offering a tranquil space dedicated to mindfulness and yoga practice.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and airy interior spaces.
04
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system to promote environmental sustainability.
05
Surrounded by native landscaping to reinforce the connection between the structure and its natural environment.

The "Olho de Água" project is an architectural design focused on creating a retreat space dedicated to yoga and mindfulness. Situated in a mountainous landscape, this facility emphasizes a deep connection with nature, allowing visitors to engage in wellness practices while being immersed in a tranquil environment. The architectural design integrates with the topography, providing serene views and an atmosphere conducive to reflection and personal growth.

Unique to this project is the thoughtful interplay between built and natural elements. The structure features a long, horizontal form that aligns with the slope of the terrain, enhancing the building's visual coherence with its surroundings. Large expanses of glass facilitate natural light and facilitate indoor-outdoor interaction, blurring the boundaries between the spaces. This engagement with nature is a central theme of the project, promoting a holistic experience for users seeking refuge from urban life.

One distinguishing feature of the "Olho de Água" project is its sustainable approach. The use of renewable energy systems, including wind turbines, illustrates a commitment to environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the building incorporates rainwater harvesting and a natural waterproofing layer to minimize its ecological impact. This functionality not only supports the building's operational needs but reinforces its position as a model for sustainable architectural practices.

Interior spaces reflect an adaptable design. The main yoga studio is spacious, allowing for various configurations tailored to different activities, whether for group classes or individual sessions. The emphasis on flexible layouts promotes interaction among users, facilitating community building within the serene backdrop. By using a natural palette of materials, including wood, stone, and ceramics, the design achieves an inviting atmosphere that resonates with the surrounding landscape.

For those keen to explore the full scope of the "Olho de Água" project, including detailed architectural plans and sections, further insights into architectural ideas and designs are available for review. Understanding the meticulous design processes that led to this unique architectural undertaking can provide valuable context and appreciation for the integration of wellness and sustainability in contemporary architecture.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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