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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Framework in a Seamless Yoga Retreat Integration

Authors:
Rabie Al ashi, Lavinia Tarif
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Framework in a Seamless Yoga Retreat Integration

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a timber framework, the retreat harmoniously blends with its forested surroundings, offering a tranquil space designed for yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability and structural integrity.
03
Incorporates an extensive outdoor platform for seamless indoor-outdoor interaction.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure, optimizing spatial dynamics and light distribution.
05
Employs solar vacuum tubes, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing ecological impact.

## Overview
Located in a serene natural setting, The Shala is designed as a multi-functional yoga retreat that prioritizes a deep connection with its surroundings. The architecture emphasizes minimalist principles while integrating sustainable practices to enhance user experience and environmental responsiveness. The intent behind the design is to create a tranquil space conducive to yoga, meditation, and reflection.

## Spatial Configuration and User Interaction
The building's spatial organization is defined by a simple, elongated block, which delineates functional areas while maintaining an open, cohesive appearance. The layout includes two ensuite bedrooms alongside a dedicated yoga space, balancing the need for both communal interaction and private retreat. This design promotes versatility, allowing for various activities from yoga sessions to communal gatherings. Large windows open the interiors to the landscape, fostering an immersive experience with nature.

## Material Selection and Sustainability
Material choices are carefully considered to reflect the project's commitment to sustainability and tactile quality. A timber roof not only creates a natural aesthetic but also contributes to energy efficiency alongside solar vacuum tubes and photovoltaic panels. The integration of furniture into the ground enhances usability and minimizes visual clutter, while solid hardwood flooring offers warmth and comfort. Additional sustainable features, such as rainwater tanks, support the structure's self-sufficiency and reduce its ecological footprint, aligning with modern ecological design principles.

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

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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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