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Cork Cladding and Mass Timber Form a Tranquil Yoga Retreat in a Forested Setting

Author:
Adrián Álvarez gonzález
Cork Cladding and Mass Timber Form a Tranquil Yoga Retreat in a Forested Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with a harmonious blend of cork cladding and mass timber, this yoga retreat seamlessly integrates into its forested environment, providing a dedicated space for wellness and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork cladding provides natural insulation and soundproofing.
02
Mass timber beams create structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design enhances spatial dynamics and aesthetic appeal.
04
Elevated structures promote natural water drainage and ecosystem preservation.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems facilitate sustainable water management on-site.

The Vale de Moses Yoga House is an architectural project located in Vale de Moses, Portugal. This design encompasses two distinct pavilions that serve the dual functions of promoting wellness and enhancing the practice of Hatha yoga. The project's architecture is a deliberate integration of natural elements and sustainable materials, establishing a space that fosters tranquility and connection with the surrounding environment.

The Yoga Sanctuary and Functional Pavilion are the two central components of this project. The Yoga Sanctuary offers an expansive interior characterized by high ceilings and large windows that provide ample natural light. The open and airy design facilitates a direct connection with the outdoors, reinforcing the principle of harmony found in yoga practice.

The Functional Pavilion includes essential amenities such as kitchen facilities, showers, and storage, designed to support the activities hosted within the Yoga Sanctuary. The continuity of indoor and outdoor spaces is a key feature here. Each structure is elevated above the landscape, allowing for natural water flow and minimizing disturbance to the existing vegetation.

The use of materials in this project is notable for its sustainability and harmony with nature. Cork cladding serves as an environmentally friendly exterior finish, renowned for its acoustic and thermal insulation properties. The application of glazed polycarbonate panels allows for transparency while maintaining durability. The timber structure, consisting of mass timber beams, adds both structural integrity and warmth to the interiors.

This project represents a thoughtful response to the increasing demand for spaces dedicated to wellness and mindfulness within the architectural landscape. What sets the Vale de Moses Yoga House apart from conventional designs is its two-pavilion approach, each with a distinct but complementary function. The separation of the yoga practice area and the utility space enhances the user experience by creating distinct environments that meet specific needs without interference.

The architectural design choices reflect a commitment to sustainability and user-centric functionality. Features like solar panels have been integrated to reduce energy consumption, while rainwater harvesting systems underscore the project's ecological responsibility. Furthermore, the design celebrates the natural terrain, with pathways carefully planned to blend seamlessly with the environment, encouraging a strong connection to nature.

For readers interested in deeper insights into the Vale de Moses Yoga House, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design concepts will provide a comprehensive understanding of the project's implications and its innovative approaches to wellness architecture.

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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.

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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

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