Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Circular Retreat Crafted with Glass Walls and Natural Wood Accents in a Tranquil Bog Environment

Authors:
Weston Baker, Aldon Baker
Circular Retreat Crafted with Glass Walls and Natural Wood Accents in a Tranquil Bog Environment

Project in-detail

Surrounded by Latvia's serene bog landscape, a circular structure of glass and natural wood serves as a tranquil retreat for yoga practitioners, fostering a deep connection with nature and promoting mindfulness.
5 key facts about this project
01
The retreat features a circular layout that enhances communal interaction and fosters a sense of unity among practitioners.
02
The design incorporates an oculus at the center, allowing natural light to flood the space and engage users with the sky.
03
Large glass walls frame views of the surrounding bog, creating a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor environments.
04
Sustainable materials such as cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles promote environmental responsibility while adding to the aesthetic.
05
The integration of built-in greenery around the structure enhances biodiversity and contributes to a calming atmosphere.
The Yoga Retreat: Isolation House is an architectural project located in the tranquil settings of Latvia's bog. This design serves as a dedicated space for individuals seeking wellness, reflection, and a connection to nature through yoga practice. The primary function of this retreat house is to provide an immersive environment where practitioners can escape the hustle of daily life and engage fully in their physical and spiritual practices.

The architectural design of the Isolation House is rooted in a philosophy that emphasizes simplicity and harmony with the surrounding environment. The use of a circular form is intentional, promoting a sense of wholeness and inclusivity, essential principles in yoga. This design choice allows for a continuous flow throughout the space, inviting inhabitants to move freely and engage with both their internal selves and the external landscape.

Significant elements of the design include large glass windows that offer expansive views of the natural surroundings, effectively dissolving the barriers between indoor and outdoor spaces. This transparency not only enhances the connection to the bog landscape but also allows natural light to illuminate the interior, creating a serene atmosphere conducive to meditation and relaxation. Such transparency is a thoughtful response to the need for visual and physical engagement with nature, underscoring the project’s commitment to fostering mindfulness.

Another critical aspect of the architecture is the incorporation of natural materials. A combination of clear glass and wood elements were chosen not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their ability to evoke a sense of warmth and comfort. The internal finishes prioritize sustainability and environmental sensitivity, aligning with the overarching mission of the retreat to encourage well-being and ecological consciousness.

The layout of the space is meticulously planned to serve multiple functions. It includes a designated yoga studio that can accommodate various practices, from individual sessions to larger group classes. The open and flexible nature of this central area promotes a sense of community while allowing personal expression in the practice of yoga. Additional spaces for relaxation and contemplation integrate seamlessly into the overall design, enhancing the experience of tranquility that defines the retreat.

Unique design approaches evident in the Isolation House include the use of a central oculus in the roof, allowing light and air to flow through the circular space. This architectural feature symbolizes an openness to the universe and reflects the connection between the physical self and the larger world, a fundamental aspect of yoga philosophy. The surrounding landscape further enhances the experience, with pathways leading to various viewpoints and gardens designed to enrich the sensory experience.

The project also respects the geographical context, using the natural topography to enhance its integration with the site. The careful consideration of elevation differences transforms the approach to the building into a journey of discovery, drawing visitors closer to their destination through a series of engaging outdoor experiences. These design choices reflect a deep understanding of the site’s ecology and a commitment to sustainability, demonstrating a thoughtful balance between architectural intent and environmental integration.

The Yoga Retreat: Isolation House is more than just an architectural project; it is a manifestation of a holistic approach to wellness that recognizes the importance of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The design thoughtfully incorporates elements that support individual and collective experiences in yoga practice, making it a functional space rooted in the principles of mindfulness and ecological consciousness.

For those interested in exploring more about this inspiring architectural project, the presentation details the exploration of architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that underpin the project’s unique vision. Delving into these elements will offer a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that have shaped this retreat house, revealing how its design contributes to the overarching goal of fostering a peaceful and rejuvenating sanctuary in nature.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
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 16544 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