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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Frame Elevate a Community-Focused Wellness Retreat

Author:
Weize Liang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Frame Elevate a Community-Focused Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

With a striking façade of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass, the design seamlessly blends natural materials to create a serene space dedicated to wellness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and views.
04
Integrates natural ventilation strategies for energy-efficient climate control.
05
Features communal spaces that encourage social interaction and wellness activities.
The Yoga Shrine is an architectural project designed to function as a space for yoga practice and community engagement. It is situated within a serene natural landscape, promoting a connection between practitioners and the environment. The design integrates various spaces to enhance both individual and collective experiences, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and tranquility.

The architectural design includes a large yoga studio, informal gathering areas, and amenities such as a restaurant. This enhances the multifunctionality of the facility, allowing it to serve as both a space for private reflection and community interaction. The spatial configurations foster an environment conducive to relaxation, while the open layout promotes accessibility and flow between different areas of the shrine.

Unique Design Approaches and Materiality

One of the standout features of the Yoga Shrine is its organic architectural form. The structure consists of flowing lines and curved roof profiles that integrate seamlessly with the natural landscape. The design mimics natural elements, encouraging a soothing ambiance that enhances users' experiences. Large glass panels are utilized extensively in the façade, which allows for abundant natural light and a direct connection to the outside environment. This design choice also reduces the reliance on artificial lighting, promoting energy efficiency.

The primary materials used in the construction include timber, glass, concrete, and stone. Timber offers sustainability and warmth, while glass creates transparency and openness. Concrete serves as a durable foundation that supports the overall structure. Stone elements are incorporated to provide texture and a tactile connection to the surrounding environment, enhancing the zen-like atmosphere of the building.

Sustainable strategies are embedded throughout the design, allowing for natural ventilation and passive climate control. The orientation of the building takes advantage of prevailing winds and sunlight to create comfortable indoor conditions year-round. The modular design approach allows for easy assembly and disassembly, reflecting contemporary considerations for sustainability in architecture.

Spatial Layout and Functionality

The layout of the Yoga Shrine is meticulously organized to balance private and communal spaces. The yoga studio is positioned to maximize light and views, fostering an immersive experience in nature. Surrounding lounge areas encourage social interaction while providing relaxation zones for users. The restaurant is designed to serve nutritious meals, further supporting the health and wellness philosophy of the project.

Architectural plans and sections have been carefully developed to articulate the relationship between the various functional areas. The architectural designs reflect an understanding of user needs, promoting flexibility in how spaces are utilized. The overall design concept emphasizes holistic wellness and serves as a model for future projects that seek to enhance the user experience through architecture.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design of the Yoga Shrine, explore the provided project presentation. This offers a deeper look into the unique architectural ideas and design methodologies that define this innovative project.
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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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