Architecture project // Connecting Spaces with Zinc Cladding and Pine Wood in Nature Retreats

Connecting Spaces with Zinc Cladding and Pine Wood in Nature Retreats

Authors:

Tsz ching Chan, Fangyi Miao

With its combination of floor-to-ceiling windows and a warm palette of zinc cladding and pine wood, the retreat offers a tranquil escape that seamlessly connects visitors to the surrounding landscape while promoting wellness and community engagement.

5 key facts about this project

Sleeping pods are intentionally designed to symbolize connections to the land, hill, and sky.

Floor-to-ceiling windows provide unobstructed views, enhancing the indoor-outdoor experience.

The use of zinc cladding ensures durability while blending with the natural environment.

Communal spaces foster social interaction among guests while maintaining privacy in sleeping areas.

Vertical circulation enhances natural light flow and guides movement between spaces.

General keywords

portugal yoga retreat nature mountains communal private wellness sustainability hammock

Project specific keywords

serra sleeping pods floor-to-ceiling wood stud strand board

The Vale de Moses Yoga Retreat is found in the Serra de Estrela mountains of central Portugal, designed to connect its users with the surrounding nature while providing a calming space for reflection and relaxation. The layout separates public and private areas to enhance both individual experiences and communal activities. This design emphasizes a balance between functionality and serenity.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout of the retreat is intentionally designed to support both social engagement and personal solitude. Communal areas, including cooking and gathering facilities, are positioned to encourage interaction among guests. In contrast, sleeping pods offer a quiet retreat space. This division allows visitors to enjoy group activities while still having access to moments of privacy and introspection.

Connection to Nature

Each level of the sleeping pods offers a unique connection to the natural landscape. The ground level features a hammock, inviting guests to feel at one with the earth. The first floor showcases large windows that frame views of the surrounding hills, fostering a visual bond with the scenery. On the second floor, visitors can look up at the sky while resting in bed, blurring the line between indoor comfort and the outdoors.

Material Usage

Materials play a crucial role in the design. The roof is made of zinc cladding over wooden supports, providing strength and blending into the natural environment. Walls consist of pine wood and strand board, chosen for their warmth and sustainable qualities. The floors are crafted from pine wood, equipped with a water membrane insulation system, which contributes to both comfort and efficiency throughout the retreat.

Vertical Circulation

Vertical circulation enhances movement within the retreat, creating a flow between different levels and spaces. This design choice maximizes natural light and invites guests to experience their surroundings from multiple perspectives. The careful arrangement of spaces, along with the thoughtful selection of materials, creates a cohesive atmosphere that encourages relaxation and mindfulness in nature.