Emphasizing a connection to its mountainous surroundings, the retreat employs sloped stone facades and charred wooden shingles to create a calming atmosphere that enhances wellness practices for guests.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project utilizes charred wooden shingles as a fire-resistant cladding method, enhancing durability while blending with the natural landscape.
02
Elevated on stilts, the design minimizes soil disturbance and allows for the preservation of native flora beneath the structure.
03
A sloped roof design optimizes solar gain, contributing to the energy efficiency of the building without compromising aesthetic appeal.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels were selected for their sustainability, strength, and ability to provide warmth to the interior spaces.
05
Integrated greywater systems support water conservation efforts by reusing water for the surrounding landscape’s irrigation needs.
General keywords
Sombra House is an architectural project located within the tranquil Vale de Moses Yoga Retreat in Portugal's Serra de Estrela mountain range. Designed with a focus on well-being, this structure embodies the integration of nature and human experience, providing a serene sanctuary for guests seeking solace and introspection. The project represents a harmonious balance between modern architecture and the surrounding landscape, offering a space that encourages relaxation and community engagement through its carefully thought-out design.
At its core, Sombra House functions as a retreat space that caters to yoga practitioners, wellness seekers, and those in search of tranquility away from the fast pace of daily life. The design encompasses various areas tailored for different activities, ensuring that guests have access to communal spaces for interaction, as well as private nooks for personal reflection and rejuvenation. This duality in spatial organization underscores a philosophy of comfort and connection, fostering an environment conducive to mindfulness and relaxation.
The architectural layout is characterized by distinct public and private zones. Communal areas are generous in their design, utilizing large openings that invite natural light and fresh air, effectively blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also promotes a sense of belonging among guests. In contrast, the sleeping pods are thoughtfully arranged to ensure privacy while still providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Each pod incorporates large windows, allowing occupants to maintain a connection with nature even while retreating from communal activities.
Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall architectural expression of Sombra House. The project employs locally sourced materials that not only resonate with the cultural heritage of the region but also enhance the building's sustainability. Stone serves as a foundational element, providing stability and tying the structure into its natural context. Complementing the stonework, wood introduces warmth and texture, transforming the overall sensory experience within the house. The inclusion of traditional ceramic tiles adds a layer of cultural significance, seamlessly merging modern design with local craftsmanship.
One of the unique design approaches adopted in Sombra House is its massing strategy, which responds intuitively to the topography of its mountainous site. The building employs a multi-level arrangement that allows for variation in height, creating dynamic interior spaces while maintaining a cohesive exterior aesthetic. The sloped roof serves not only functional purposes, allowing for optimal solar exposure for energy efficiency but also contributes visually to the landscape by resembling the surrounding hills. Additionally, the design features a porous timber facade that enhances airflow and diffuses sunlight, carefully managing thermal comfort without compromising views and natural light.
Furthermore, Sombra House incorporates green building practices that reflect a commitment to sustainability. Solar panels are strategically positioned to harness energy, and a greywater system is integrated to promote water conservation by reusing water for irrigation of the property. The decision to elevate the structure with stilts minimizes disruption to the existing flora, allowing the native vegetation to thrive in harmony with the architecture. This thoughtful approach to environmental stewardship not only contributes to the sustainability of the retreat but also enriches the guest experience by embracing the natural character of the location.
Through its careful consideration of space, materiality, and environmental impact, Sombra House stands as a testament to how thoughtful architectural design can enhance well-being and foster a deeper connection to nature. The project encourages guests to engage with their surroundings while providing all the comforts of a modern retreat. For those interested in exploring the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs of Sombra House, a comprehensive presentation is available that offers further insights into this remarkable architectural endeavor.
At its core, Sombra House functions as a retreat space that caters to yoga practitioners, wellness seekers, and those in search of tranquility away from the fast pace of daily life. The design encompasses various areas tailored for different activities, ensuring that guests have access to communal spaces for interaction, as well as private nooks for personal reflection and rejuvenation. This duality in spatial organization underscores a philosophy of comfort and connection, fostering an environment conducive to mindfulness and relaxation.
The architectural layout is characterized by distinct public and private zones. Communal areas are generous in their design, utilizing large openings that invite natural light and fresh air, effectively blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also promotes a sense of belonging among guests. In contrast, the sleeping pods are thoughtfully arranged to ensure privacy while still providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Each pod incorporates large windows, allowing occupants to maintain a connection with nature even while retreating from communal activities.
Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall architectural expression of Sombra House. The project employs locally sourced materials that not only resonate with the cultural heritage of the region but also enhance the building's sustainability. Stone serves as a foundational element, providing stability and tying the structure into its natural context. Complementing the stonework, wood introduces warmth and texture, transforming the overall sensory experience within the house. The inclusion of traditional ceramic tiles adds a layer of cultural significance, seamlessly merging modern design with local craftsmanship.
One of the unique design approaches adopted in Sombra House is its massing strategy, which responds intuitively to the topography of its mountainous site. The building employs a multi-level arrangement that allows for variation in height, creating dynamic interior spaces while maintaining a cohesive exterior aesthetic. The sloped roof serves not only functional purposes, allowing for optimal solar exposure for energy efficiency but also contributes visually to the landscape by resembling the surrounding hills. Additionally, the design features a porous timber facade that enhances airflow and diffuses sunlight, carefully managing thermal comfort without compromising views and natural light.
Furthermore, Sombra House incorporates green building practices that reflect a commitment to sustainability. Solar panels are strategically positioned to harness energy, and a greywater system is integrated to promote water conservation by reusing water for irrigation of the property. The decision to elevate the structure with stilts minimizes disruption to the existing flora, allowing the native vegetation to thrive in harmony with the architecture. This thoughtful approach to environmental stewardship not only contributes to the sustainability of the retreat but also enriches the guest experience by embracing the natural character of the location.
Through its careful consideration of space, materiality, and environmental impact, Sombra House stands as a testament to how thoughtful architectural design can enhance well-being and foster a deeper connection to nature. The project encourages guests to engage with their surroundings while providing all the comforts of a modern retreat. For those interested in exploring the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs of Sombra House, a comprehensive presentation is available that offers further insights into this remarkable architectural endeavor.
