The Raiz Para Coroa Yoga House is located in the hills of Oleiros, Portugal. It serves as a retreat for yoga and meditation. The design emphasizes a strong connection to the surrounding landscape while drawing inspiration from local agricultural practices and spiritual beliefs. The building embodies the theme of opening chakras, with a form that adapts to the topography, creating a space that invites practitioners to engage deeply with both the environment and their practice.

Concept

A key feature of the design is the funnel-shaped skylight. This element allows natural light to enter the interior, creating an uplifting environment for users. The light and space work together to enhance the experience of yoga, promoting a feeling of calm and focus. By letting in sunlight, the design connects those inside with the natural world outside.

Sustainability and Materials

The yoga house incorporates a water collection system. Tile gutters direct rainwater, which is then used to irrigate the garden. This approach shows a focus on sustainability and responsible resource use. Materials like clay are used for the roof, relating the structure to local building traditions. Timber is the main material throughout the building, providing warmth and stability while ensuring it blends into the surroundings.

Spatial Arrangement

Inside, a central service core organizes essential functions like storage for yoga mats and changing rooms. This layout maintains privacy, separating these areas from the open space used for practice. Large operable windows offer expansive views of the hills, reinforcing the connection to nature. This thoughtful arrangement makes the most of both space and light.

Details

Adjacent to the yoga house, there is a garden and meditation platform that create additional areas for reflection. A small wooden bridge leads from the hillside to the entrance, providing an inviting transition into the space. The design utilizes light, materials, and thoughtful placement to create a setting that encourages a fulfillment of both individual and group practices, resonating with the cultural context of the area.