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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation Create a Serene Meditation Retreat on a Cliff

Author:
Ashraf Abdalla
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation Create a Serene Meditation Retreat on a Cliff

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and large expanses of glass for natural light, this meditation retreat merges advanced sustainability practices with a cliffside location to offer a serene environment for yoga and mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Incorporates large transparent photovoltaic glass to maximize natural light while generating energy.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes natural air circulation throughout the retreat.
04
Paths within the site are designed to facilitate mindfulness, guiding practitioners through intuitive movement.
05
Nestled on a cliffside, the retreat offers unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding environment.
The Yoga House on a Cliff is a thoughtfully designed architectural project that integrates seamlessly into its natural surroundings. This structure serves as a dedicated space for yoga and meditation, aiming to enhance the experience of practitioners by fostering a deep connection with nature. The design prioritizes visibility and interaction with the landscape while ensuring functionality for its users.

The key components of the project include a spacious yoga hall, support facilities, and landscaped transition areas. The yoga hall is characterized by large expanses of transparent photovoltaic glass, allowing for abundant natural light, essential for creating a serene environment for practice. The inclusion of sun blockers further optimizes light and thermal comfort, highlighting a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.

The layout is devised strategically to guide users through a thoughtfully curated experience. The arrangement of spaces promotes a natural flow between indoor and outdoor settings, enhancing the meditative journey. The architectural design applies geometric principles that resonate with themes of infinity and mindfulness, utilizing decreasing squares as a motif. This geometric focus distinguishes the project from typical yoga studios, emphasizing the contemplative nature of yoga practice.

Material selection plays a significant role in this project. Predominantly, wood is utilized for structural elements and finishes, providing warmth and an organic quality that resonates with the intent of meditation. The use of stone or concrete in foundational structures enhances stability against the cliff's rugged terrain, merging durability with aesthetic appeal.

Unique design approaches include the integration of natural ventilation strategies and cross-flow air circulation, reducing reliance on artificial climate control. Pathways are designed to engage visitors, supporting a contemplative journey from one space to another, reinforcing the purpose of the house as a retreat for mindfulness.

For detailed insights into the architectural composition, including architectural plans and sections, readers are encouraged to explore further aspects of this project. Examining the specific architectural designs and innovative ideas will provide a comprehensive understanding of the Yoga House on a Cliff and its contributions to architectural discourse in creating spaces for wellness and reflection.
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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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