Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Merging With Natural Landscape for Mindful Retreat

Authors:
Letícia Costa, Lorena Cerqueira, Luiza Penna, Marcela Chagas
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Merging With Natural Landscape for Mindful Retreat

Project in-detail

A harmonious blend of cross-laminated timber and expansive glass elements creates a tranquil environment that supports mindfulness and yoga practice within an immersive natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from cross-laminated timber, promoting sustainability.
02
Features a patio garden that integrates seamlessly with the interior spaces.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Incorporates large glass walls to create a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and airflow.
The architectural project "Bodhi" is a dedicated yoga retreat located in central Portugal, designed to foster personal connection to nature and enhance mindfulness practices. The building is conceived as both a functional space for yoga practice and a peaceful sanctuary for reflection and introspection. Its architectural design emphasizes natural elements, seamless indoor-outdoor transitions, and sustainability, aligning with the principles of wellness and environmental consciousness.

Spatially, the project is characterized by an entrance corridor that guides visitors towards a central yoga studio with large glass openings that frame the surrounding landscape. Adjacent to the yoga room, a patio garden serves as an intermediate space, promoting interaction with nature while providing an area for relaxation. This layout ensures that all functional components of the retreat are cohesively integrated, enhancing the overall user experience.

The project’s unique approach lies in its harmonious use of materials and its thoughtful relationship with the landscape. Key materials include cross-laminated timber for structural elements, cork paving for interior flooring, clay finishes for walls, and an expansive use of glass to facilitate natural light throughout the building. This material selection not only underscores the building's connection to its environment but also ensures a focus on sustainability. The incorporation of solar panels and rainwater recycling systems reflects the project's commitment to reducing its ecological footprint.

The architectural design also leads to an innovative spatial composition, wherein zones are meticulously organized to enhance movement and energy flow. The intent is to create an environment conducive to mindfulness practices through the deliberate arrangement of spaces dedicated to yoga, storage, and communal interaction. The integration of skylights further enhances the experience by allowing natural light to permeate the interior, creating a dynamic atmosphere that changes throughout the day.

In essence, "Bodhi" serves as a model of contemporary architecture that prioritizes user experience, sustainable design practices, and a strong connection to the natural landscape. Readers interested in exploring the specifics of the architectural plans, sections, and designs are encouraged to further examine the detailed project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its innovative architectural ideas.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy