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Cork Floors and Foundling Masonry Embrace Nature-Focused Yoga Space

Author:
Mirco Schwung
Cork Floors and Foundling Masonry Embrace Nature-Focused Yoga Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced cork and foundling masonry, the design creates a serene yoga space that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape while maximizing natural light through expansive glazing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced cork for flooring to enhance sustainability.
02
Features foundling masonry for the enclosure of outdoor facilities.
03
Employs extensive glazing for panoramic views of the valley.
04
Incorporates a cantilevered roof that interacts with the natural landscape.
05
Designed as a support-free structure to create open interior spaces.

The "power house" is designed to blend with its natural environment. Located in an area with rolling hills and scenic views, its main function is to serve as a yoga space. The design focuses on openness and lightness, allowing fresh air and sunlight to fill the interior. This approach enhances the overall experience for users, creating a calm atmosphere.

Structural Design

The cantilevered roof gracefully extends toward the valley, providing a visual connection to the landscape. This feature is important not only for aesthetics but also for building stability. A clever suspension system supports the roof. Forces on the roof are directed to the ground using counterweights, which helps maintain the building's balance and light appearance.

Materiality

The selection of materials plays a key role in the design. The vertical formwork is made from in-situ concrete that comes from local logs. This choice fosters a direct relationship with the nearby nature. The floors utilize local cork, a material praised for its sustainability and comfort underfoot. Stamped concrete adds visual interest, while foundling masonry encompasses outdoor areas. The outdoor flooring is made from split stone, ensuring a consistent look that aligns with the setting.

Interior Environment

Large windows dominate the yoga area, offering panoramic views of the valley. This extensive glazing allows natural light to flood the space, enhancing the experience inside. The three-sided glazing connects the interior and exterior, making the environment feel harmonious. Users can enjoy a bright, inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and mindfulness.

The approach taken in the design reflects a strong awareness of balance and sustainability. Light and shadow play across various surfaces, creating a rich visual experience. The building embraces its surroundings, inviting users to engage with nature.

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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

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