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Cork Insulation and Lusitanica Oak Create a Tranquil Yoga Retreat

Authors:
Sizhe Chen, David Bell, Jesus Sanchez, Isabelle Ndoumy-kouakou
Cork Insulation and Lusitanica Oak Create a Tranquil Yoga Retreat
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A skylight allows celestial connection in a structure built with cork insulation and Lusitanica oak, creating a serene environment ideal for yoga and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
A pulley system transports items between floors, enhancing accessibility while maintaining tranquility.
02
Cork insulation provides effective thermal comfort and energy efficiency tailored for the warm climate.
03
A skylight integrates celestial viewing, fostering mindfulness in a serene environment.
04
Lusitanica oak framing combines structural strength with aesthetic warmth throughout the retreat.
05
Operable window panels allow for adjustable airflow while ensuring privacy during routines.

"Corpo Mente Alma" is located in Portugal and serves as a yoga retreat that emphasizes the connection between the body, mind, and soul. The design creates a space for visitors to step away from daily routines and engage in a deeper exploration of self. With a focus on natural elements and thoughtful spatial arrangement, the concept seeks to foster personal growth and mindfulness.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the retreat clearly defines areas dedicated to physical activity, mental focus, and spiritual reflection. The ground floor provides a practical setting for everyday functions, allowing easy movement between spaces. This organization enhances the user experience, making it straightforward for visitors to interact with the environment.

The upper floor is designed as a sanctuary for mental clarity, featuring an open plan that invites natural light and encourages contemplation. Free of clutter, this space helps users concentrate on their thoughts while enjoying views of the natural landscape. The orientation of the upper floor draws visitors into a closer relationship with their surroundings, supporting a deeper practice of mindfulness.

Innovative Features

A skylight is a central feature of the cabin, allowing users to look up at the stars and experience a sense of spiritual connection. This element adds to the overall atmosphere of the retreat, creating moments of reflection and peace.

A pulley system facilitates the movement of items between the ground and upper levels, ensuring that access remains easy without disrupting the serene environment. Operable window panels enhance both privacy and airflow, key factors in maintaining comfort in the warm climate.

Material Selection

The project utilizes cork insulation in the walls, contributing to thermal comfort and energy efficiency. Lusitanica oak framing offers both strength and a warm aesthetic. Japanese joinery techniques showcase skilled craftsmanship while ensuring durability in the design. These materials not only fulfill practical purposes but also enrich the overall experience, creating a welcoming atmosphere that promotes relaxation and focus.

The thoughtful combination of natural elements, functional features, and quality craftsmanship results in a retreat that encourages visitors to engage with themselves and their surroundings. Attention to detail is evident throughout the design, drawing people into a space meant for reflection and connection.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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