Situated in a quiet pine forest, Jardim Coberto serves as a yoga house designed to create a close connection with nature. The space is intended for yoga practitioners seeking tranquility and reflection. Its clear design concept centers on opening up the building to the outside world, encouraging users to feel the presence of the surrounding environment while they practice and relax.

Design Concept

The design emphasizes the relationship between the built environment and the natural landscape. By blending interior and exterior spaces, the layout invites people to experience nature firsthand. This thoughtful organization allows for smooth transitions between different functional areas, encouraging both individual reflection and communal gathering. The layout seeks to enhance well-being by deepening the connection between users and their surroundings.

Materiality

Materials are an important aspect of Jardim Coberto. The use of Portuguese cork wraps the building inside and out, creating a tactile relationship with nature and providing effective insulation. The cork’s warm colors and texture align with the forest environment. Wood is also a key material, with the structure made from cross-laminated timber (CLT), which highlights the commitment to sustainability and ecological design.

Sustainability Features

Sustainable practices are integral to the design. Ground screws serve as the foundation, minimizing ground disturbance while ensuring stability. Energy needs are met with a photovoltaic solar panel system that enables the building to produce its own power. A borehole supplies drinking water, with grey water being redirected for garden irrigation. This thorough approach to water and energy management reflects an effort to minimize environmental impact.

Spatial Experience

Each functional area is designed carefully to maximize natural light and foster a calm atmosphere. The yoga spaces feature large openings that connect directly to the forest, allowing practitioners to feel part of nature. This thoughtful design promotes well-being and introspection. By blending indoor and outdoor environments, Jardim Coberto encourages a profound interaction with the landscape that surrounds it.

With careful attention to detail, such as the incorporation of greenery along the building’s sides, Jardim Coberto illustrates the principles of practical and environmentally sensitive design.