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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Framework Create a Serene Yoga Retreat in Nature

Authors:
Jalis Bergeret, Adam Riaboff, Félix Nguyen van sang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Framework Create a Serene Yoga Retreat in Nature

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and a framework of timber, the design harmoniously integrates open spaces that facilitate a tranquil atmosphere for yoga and meditation amidst the surrounding forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to create structural efficiency and warmth.
04
Provides direct views of the surrounding forest to enhance the connection with nature.
05
Designed with flexible spaces suited for both group activities and individual reflection.

### Project Overview
Engawa House is located on the edge of a forest, designed to establish a strong connection between the built environment and its natural surroundings. The intent of the design is to create an environment conducive to activities such as yoga and reflection, promoting tranquility and mindfulness. This report provides an analysis of the project’s conceptual framework, spatial organization, and material choices, which contribute to its distinct character.

### Spatial Organization
The layout of the Engawa House comprises interconnected zones organized around two primary axes intersecting at right angles, forming a central hub for yoga and meditation. This configuration enhances user interactions and creates multiple focal points for experiencing the landscape. The site plan deliberately positions practice areas, breakout spaces, and a communal deck that opens towards the forest, facilitating continuous visual and spatial engagement with nature.

### Materiality
The materials employed in the construction of Engawa House significantly contribute to its architectural expression and internal atmosphere. Predominantly, wood is utilized for both structural and aesthetic components, reinforcing the connection to the surrounding forest. Concrete serves as a durable foundation, creating a contrast with the warmth of wooden elements, while glass walls provide transparency, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior spaces and framing views of the external landscape. This thoughtful selection of materials fosters a harmonious relationship between the dwelling and its environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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