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Cork Cladding and Timber Frames Integrate with Nature for a Tranquil Wellness Space

Authors:
Federica Fogazzi, Matteo Pavanello
Cork Cladding and Timber Frames Integrate with Nature for a Tranquil Wellness Space
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Asymmetrically designed with intersecting volumes and clad in natural cork, the building fosters a deep connection with the surrounding landscape while providing a serene space for yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Asymmetric volumes create unique spatial experiences.
02
Cork cladding enhances thermal and acoustic insulation.
03
Design emphasizes direct views of the surrounding valley.
04
Rainwater collection system supports sustainability efforts.
05
Timber beams are exposed to highlight structural rhythm.

The yoga house is set within a peaceful natural landscape, designed for mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation. The architecture responds to a growing demand for spaces that promote well-being. With a minimalistic approach, the design carefully blends the building with its environment. It consists of two intersecting asymmetric volumes that create a thoughtful balance between functional areas and the surrounding nature, focusing on user experience and connection to the outdoors.

Concept and Functionality

The design emphasizes a clear flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large openings allow users to connect with views of the landscape. The main volume serves as a flexible area for yoga practice, supporting a range of activities. In contrast, a secondary volume holds crucial services like the entrance, restrooms, changing areas, and a kitchenette. This variety enhances the utility of the space while maintaining a calm and focused atmosphere ideal for reflection.

Materiality

Concrete forms the structural base of the building, providing strength and stability. Above, a timber framework supports the upper sections. The exterior features two layers of insulating cork, which helps create a unified appearance and promotes sustainability. Cork is a local material that is environmentally friendly, contributing to effective thermal and acoustic properties within the house.

Sustainability Features

Rainwater management is a key aspect of the design. Roofs are angled to collect rainwater, channeling it into a collection tank for future use. This shows a commitment to smart resource management in harmony with nature. Solar panels on the west-facing roof maximize energy efficiency without blocking views of the adjacent forest. Well-placed windows across the design enhance ventilation, improving air quality and contributing to the overall wellness focus of the space.

Internal Experience

Visitors navigate through a sequence of interconnected spaces that encourage exploration without traditional corridors. The journey begins with a small, intimate entrance and unfolds into a bright, spacious area intended for practice. This progression leads to a calming tea space that opens up to a private garden. These design details enhance moments of tranquility, promoting personal reflection while reinforcing the connection to nature. Exposed timber beams within the practice area create a warm, inviting atmosphere that complements the overall architectural intent.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Open architecture competitions

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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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