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Curved Cedar Shingles Embrace Natural Light in a Sustainable Yoga Retreat

Authors:
Baiba Ruke, Ligita Brege
Curved Cedar Shingles Embrace Natural Light in a Sustainable Yoga Retreat

Project in-detail

Curved cedar shingles and expansive acrylic glass panels create a light-filled sanctuary that seamlessly integrates with its landscape, designed to support mindfulness and wellness through dedicated yoga practice.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved design maximizes natural light and energy flow throughout the space.
02
Cedar shingles provide natural insulation while blending with the landscape.
03
Rainwater collection system supports efficient water management for the retreat.
04
Acrylic glass walls offer panoramic views, enhancing the connection to nature.
05
Timber framing allows for an open, fluid layout that supports varied yoga practices.

The Surya Namaskar Yoga House, located in Vale De Moses, exemplifies a blend of functional architecture and environmental responsiveness. This project is designed as a retreat for yoga practitioners, integrating natural elements to enhance the experience of mindfulness and physical well-being. The structure is positioned to take full advantage of the landscape, promoting an immersive connection to the surrounding environment.

The primary function of the yoga house is to provide a serene space for practice, meditation, and communal activities. It features a main yoga area, which is capable of accommodating up to 28 practitioners, along with supporting facilities that include a tea area for relaxation and wet rooms for user convenience. The layout emphasizes openness and interaction with natural light, creating an atmosphere conducive to both solitary reflection and group dynamics.

Design Approach and Unique Features

The architecture of the Surya Namaskar Yoga House is marked by its curvilinear form, which encourages fluidity and movement within the space. Unlike traditional rectangular structures, the circular design facilitates a continuous flow of energy, enhancing the overall experience for users. This unique approach not only sets the building apart from conventional yoga studios but also fosters a deeper connection to the practice of yoga itself, aligning with the principles of harmony and balance inherent in the discipline.

The integration of large acrylic glass sheets maximizes natural light, minimizing reliance on artificial lighting while maintaining panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This intentional design choice reinforces the goal of connecting users with nature, supporting mental clarity and relaxation. Additionally, the use of cedar shingle siding adds a rustic element, blending the building into its environment and providing insulation and durability.

Sustainability is a core principle in the design of the yoga house. The incorporation of solar panels demonstrates a commitment to renewable energy, while rainwater collection systems for the wet rooms signify a focus on resource efficiency. The choice of timber framing allows for a flexible design approach and further emphasizes the project's sustainability goals.

Architectural Details and Functionality

Every aspect of the Surya Namaskar Yoga House is designed with functionality in mind. The yoga space spans 83 square meters, offering ample room for diverse practices. The entrance area creates a welcoming transition between the natural landscape and the inner sanctuary of the building, establishing a calm mood right from the outset. The layout encourages flow between distinct areas, facilitating a transition from active practice to relaxation.

The tea area serves as a communal space, promoting social interaction among practitioners and enhancing the sense of community that the design aims to foster. The wet rooms are not only practical but also harmoniously integrated to function efficiently with the overall water management system.

In summary, the Surya Namaskar Yoga House stands as a noteworthy example of modern architectural design that prioritizes environmental integration and functional space planning. The unique circular form, use of natural materials, and sustainable practices contribute to a holistic user experience. To explore more about this project, including detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, it is encouraged to review the project presentation for further insights.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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