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Cork Elements and Pine Structure Framing a Cliffside Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Ingy Naguib, Lamis Hani, Mannar Alaaeldin, aya walid
Cork Elements and Pine Structure Framing a Cliffside Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed from locally sourced pine and cork, the design integrates into a cliffside landscape, providing a tranquil space dedicated to yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced pine and cork for environmental sustainability.
02
Features an unroofed stone staircase surrounded by greenery for user privacy.
03
Includes 24 yoga mats positioned to optimize natural light and views of the sky.
04
Incorporates gray water recycling for irrigation and sustainable water use.
05
Provides outdoor yoga canopies that enhance connection with the natural landscape.

The Yoga House on a Cliff is a carefully designed space that harmonizes with the natural landscape. Located on a cliffside, it serves as a center for yoga and meditation, promoting comfort and relaxation. The overall design features two interconnected masses, providing an enhanced experience while connecting users with the outdoor environment.

Spatial Configuration

The layout consists of two main parts that connect and facilitate movement between indoor and outdoor areas. An unroofed stone staircase runs between these two sections, leading users to the yoga studios while providing a sense of privacy. This design integrates landscaping along the staircase, creating a more inviting atmosphere.

Natural Light and Atmosphere

Inside, the yoga space accommodates 24 mats, offering room for practice and reflection. Large windows and skylights are positioned to allow natural light to flood in, which creates a warm and uplifting environment. The focus on natural light contributes to a peaceful experience, enabling participants to take in the sky and feel part of the larger space around them.

Materiality and Sustainability

The choice of materials illustrates a commitment to sustainability and the use of local resources. Pine wood is widely used in the yoga studio, which gives off a warm feeling while being affordable. Cork is selected for the reception and mechanical areas, emphasizing environmentally friendly properties. Solar panels on the entrance roof play a key role in enhancing energy efficiency, reducing dependence on traditional energy sources.

Environmental Integration

A green roof covers the building, blending the structure with the surrounding landscape and supporting local plant life. The project also includes a gray water recycling system that repurposes water for irrigation, aligning with environmentally sustainable practices. Together, these elements ensure that the Yoga House serves its purpose effectively while being conscious of its environmental footprint.

Amidst these thoughtful features, the soothing sound of a nearby waterfall enriches the atmosphere. This sensory detail enhances the overall environment, inviting users to immerse themselves completely in their surroundings.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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