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Charred Wooden Shingles and Passive Solar Design in a Meditative Retreat

Authors:
Guillermo Garcia hernandez, César Villegas
Charred Wooden Shingles and Passive Solar Design in a Meditative Retreat

Project in-detail

Emphasizing passive solar design and clad in charred wooden shingles, the retreat seamlessly merges with its forested surroundings, offering a tranquil space for mindfulness and yoga practice.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural stability while minimizing environmental impact.
02
Incorporates a unique bent A-frame design that promotes natural ventilation and maximizes daylight.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and a distinctive aesthetic that blends with the landscape.
04
Integrates a comprehensive rainwater harvesting system to support sustainable water management practices.
05
Strategically positioned terraces encourage outdoor engagement and deep interaction with the surrounding natural environment.
The architecture of "Olho de Água" is a thoughtful response to its mountainous location, serving as a yoga retreat that promotes wellness and mindfulness. This project embodies the principles of ecological design, integrating harmoniously with its natural surroundings while prioritizing user experience and environmental responsibility. Rooted in the concept of connecting individuals with nature, "Olho de Água" draws inspiration from its meaning, "Eye of Water," reflecting a commitment to sustainability and tranquility.

Functionally, the project serves as a serene space for yoga practice and meditation, facilitating a holistic approach to wellness. The architecture encourages reflection and inner peace while providing an immersive experience in the landscape. Its design emphasizes the creation of a sanctum that allows users to disengage from the demands of daily life and reconnect with themselves and their environment.

Key components of the design include a low-profile structure that adapts to the existing terrain, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the hillside. This approach minimizes ecological disruption and encourages a more sustainable footprint. The building's roof features expansive overhangs, providing shade and guiding natural light into the interior spaces, thereby influencing energy efficiency and user comfort.

Large windows and open spaces are central to the design, ensuring that views of the surrounding forest are both preserved and celebrated. The interior of the yoga studio is characterized by natural materials such as wood and stone, which not only convey a sense of warmth but also contribute to the building's structural integrity. The selection of flooring materials, designed for comfort and usability during yoga practice, also reflects the project’s focus on enhancing user experience.

Unique aspects of "Olho de Água" include its emphasis on passive design strategies to improve sustainability. Natural ventilation and the strategic placement of windows facilitate airflow, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. This commitment to passive solar design is further complemented by the use of renewable energy sources, including solar panels and a wind turbine, underscoring an intention for the project to operate with minimal environmental impact.

Water conservation is another critical dimension of the design, highlighted by integrated rainwater harvesting systems that minimize waste and optimize resource use. These features align closely with the idea of sustainable architecture, where design choices are informed by ecological considerations and aimed at reducing the overall environmental footprint.

The architectural design invites users to engage with both the space and the landscape actively. Terraced landscaping around the building fosters interaction with nature, encouraging movement and exploration. This thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor environments creates a dynamic experience for visitors, allowing for diverse activities within a unified aesthetic framework.

To gain a deeper understanding of "Olho de Água," it is beneficial to explore its architectural plans, sections, and design ideas that articulate its vision. The architecture offers insight into how thoughtful design can create spaces that reflect environmental consciousness while meeting the needs of users. This project stands as a meaningful example of how architecture can merge functional requirements with innovative approaches to sustainability. Those interested in examining the intricate details of the project are encouraged to review the presentation to fully appreciate the distinctive qualities and architectural intentions behind "Olho de Água."
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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