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Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber Create a Tranquil Yoga Retreat in Portugal

Authors:
Raphael Mitsueda, Douglas Vicentini
Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber Create a Tranquil Yoga Retreat in Portugal

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and locally sourced timber, this yoga retreat in Portugal integrates sustainable practices and flexible design to create a harmonious space for mindfulness and retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, providing structural stability and insulation.
03
The design features a bent A-frame that optimizes space while integrating with the landscape.
04
Employs a rainwater harvesting system to support sustainability and water efficiency.
05
Offers a flexible yoga room with large windows to enhance natural light and views.
The Vale de Moses Yoga House, also known as Prāṇa House, is an architectural project situated in the Oleriros region of Portugal. This facility is designed to serve as a sanctuary for yoga practitioners, promoting relaxation, mindfulness, and holistic well-being. The structure integrates the natural landscape with functional spaces aimed at enhancing the experience of yoga and meditation.

The project features a well-defined spatial organization. The primary spaces include a yoga room, tea room, zen garden, and bathroom facilities, all arranged to encourage a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor environments. The yoga room spans 85 square meters, providing ample space for practice and adorned with large glass windows that frame the surrounding landscape. This design choice allows natural light to permeate the space, creating a calming atmosphere conducive to meditation.

The zen garden complements the yoga practice by offering an outdoor area dedicated to reflection and relaxation. Meanwhile, the tea room serves as a welcoming transition space, promoting social interaction and community engagement. The inclusion of a bathroom and a technical area further supports the facility’s functionality, ensuring that all user needs are met efficiently.

Sustainable design practices are integral to this project, setting it apart from conventional yoga centers. The strategic use of locally sourced materials, such as timber used for structural elements and flooring, enhances both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. The foundation incorporates locally sourced stone, providing durability and a connection to the site's geological context. Metal components, including stainless steel gutters and framing, ensure longevity while remaining visually cohesive with the overall design.

Unique to Prāṇa House is its commitment to environmental stewardship. Features such as solar panels facilitate energy efficiency, while a rainwater harvesting system supports sustainable water management. Additionally, the integration of double-glazed low-emissivity glass improves insulation and energy performance while maximizing views of the exterior landscape.

The architectural design prioritizes user experience by creating spaces that adapt to various needs through flexible layouts. Moveable shelving in the yoga room allows for the alteration of space configurations, catering to different types of yoga classes and workshops.

For those interested in understanding the architectural elements in more depth, it is recommended to explore the project presentation, which includes architectural plans, sections, and designs. By examining these materials, insights can be gained into the innovative approaches and detailed considerations that shaped this unique yoga house.
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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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