Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles Define A Cliffside Retreat For Mindfulness And Wellness

Authors:
Barbara paz Rossi maturana, Nicolò Marcon
Charred Wooden Shingles Define A Cliffside Retreat For Mindfulness And Wellness

Project in-detail

Cloaked in charred wooden shingles, the cliffside structure harmonizes with its natural surroundings while providing a dedicated space for yoga and wellness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cloaked in charred wooden shingles, the exterior enhances weather resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Innovative use of cross-laminated timber panels contributes to structural integrity and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior space and harmonizes with the surrounding cliff landscape.
04
Incorporation of two Zen gardens fosters a tranquil environment for contemplation and mindfulness.
05
Orientation and material choices effectively address local climatic conditions, optimizing energy efficiency.

The Yoga House on a Cliff is an architectural project designed as a retreat focused on yoga, meditation, and wellness. Located in a natural setting, the design integrates seamlessly into the landscape while facilitating a direct connection between its structure and the surrounding environment. The total area of the project spans 179 square meters, carefully organized to provide spaces conducive to relaxation and self-reflection.

The project represents a synthesis of architecture and nature, aimed at promoting health and mindfulness. By thoughtfully addressing the needs of its users through dedicated functional areas, it facilitates activities related to yoga and other wellness practices. The spatial organization includes a yoga area, a meditation space, and service zones that support the overall experience.

The architectural form is characterized by its minimalist approach, adopting a combination of angular and organic shapes that mimic the contours of the cliff upon which it is built. This duality not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also fosters a sense of harmony with the site. The building's orientation and material choices address climatic conditions effectively, ensuring comfort and energy efficiency throughout the year.

The use of local materials, such as concrete, wood, and glass, is intentional, contributing to the project's sustainability and visual coherence. Concrete provides structural robustness, wood introduces warmth, and glass serves to expand spatial perception and facilitate natural light penetration. Together, these materials create an inviting atmosphere that encourages occupants to engage with the interior and the landscape simultaneously.

Unique design approaches include the incorporation of two Zen gardens, named Ursa Major and Ursa Minor. These gardens reinforce the project's connection to nature and promote contemplation through their minimalist layouts, featuring natural stones and native vegetation. The careful arrangement of these elements aligns with the overall wellness theme of the retreat and enhances user experience.

The site plan shows a deliberate navigation path that guides visitors along a natural route to the entrance. This transition not only emphasizes the ability to escape urban life but also prepares guests for the immersive experience within the retreat. The vertical design offers elevated views of the landscape, promoting a sense of peace and enabling a direct engagement with the natural surroundings.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural principles governing this project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more detailed insights. This exploration will reveal the intricate design considerations that manifest throughout the Yoga House on a Cliff.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy