The Vale de Moses Meditation Cabins are thoughtfully designed structures located in a tranquil landscape, aimed at offering yoga practitioners a space for reflection and solitude. The retreat emphasizes a close relationship between the buildings and their natural surroundings, creating an atmosphere that promotes peace and relaxation. The design centers around the concepts of privacy and openness, encouraging users to engage fully with nature.

Design Concept

At the core of the design are two L-shaped walls. One wall features stacked folding doors that open the interior to the outside. This design creates a direct link with the natural landscape and allows plenty of sunlight to enter the cabin. The layout encourages a smooth transition between indoor practices and outdoor experiences, enhancing the overall sense of calm.

The second L-shaped wall serves as a vegetation wall that helps to hide the cabin’s non-natural sides. This element ensures the buildings blend in with their surroundings, offering privacy from nearby structures. This thoughtful approach enhances the user’s experience by providing a secluded place for meditation and yoga.

Structural and Environmental Integration

The cabins are raised above the ground to adapt to different terrain. They rest on a sturdy steel frame that offers a solid foundation. The building's skin consists of prefabricated insulated infill panels, which help regulate temperature and simplify the construction process in the remote setting. This design choice minimizes disruption to the landscape while ensuring that the structures are durable and efficient.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of the design. Each cabin has a photovoltaic system on the roof for energy production. Additionally, rainwater is collected and reused for irrigation, promoting responsible use of resources. Storage elements such as batteries and rainwater tanks are incorporated into the thickened green walls, providing practicality without compromising the visual integrity of the cabins.

The materials chosen for the cabins include Corten steel and reclaimed wood, both valued for their durability and compatibility with the environment. These selections enhance the buildings' performance while blending well with the natural surroundings. The interplay of these materials with the landscape contributes to the overall atmosphere, supporting the retreat's purpose of fostering calm and reflection.