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Curvilinear Design Embraced by Timber and Terracotta in a Yoga Retreat

Author:
Andrea Farrugia
Curvilinear Design Embraced by Timber and Terracotta in a Yoga Retreat

Project in-detail

Elevated on black steel columns, the curvilinear form of this yoga retreat seamlessly integrates timber and terracotta, creating a tranquil space designed for mindfulness and relaxation amidst nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design allows panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Curvilinear forms enhance the connection to nature and promote tranquility.
03
Sheltered outdoor garden includes areas for growing aromatic herbs.
04
Integrated rainwater collection system for sustainable water use.
05
Community spaces facilitate gatherings around a fire pit and water feature.

Casa Curva Yoga House, located in the Vale de Moses landscape of Portugal, is a space designed for yoga practice and peaceful reflection. Central to the design is the use of curvilinear forms, particularly the circle, which represents safety and calmness. This choice mirrors the surroundings, encouraging a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature.

Spatial Configuration

The structure features three circular forms that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Elevated on black steel columns, the cantilevered design provides both strength and stability while allowing for sweeping views of the landscape. This arrangement facilitates the accommodation of both small and large groups, balancing open space with intimate areas for practice.

Outdoor Integration

A prominent characteristic of Casa Curva is the outdoor garden area, which is sheltered and contains essential features such as a kitchenette, toilet, and shower. This combination of indoor and outdoor spaces encourages connection and community. Spaces for communal gatherings, including a fire pit and water feature, enhance the experience of nature, while areas for growing aromatic herbs add sensory dimensions to the environment.

Material Palette

Locally sourced materials, particularly timber and terracotta bricks, play an important role in the design. Timber adds warmth and comfort to the interior, creating an inviting space for users. Terracotta bricks are used for both structural purposes and to connect the building with local architectural practices. This choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and a thoughtful approach to context.

Environmental Features

Sustainability is woven into the project through various environmental features. A rainwater collection system and solar panels for energy generation are key components, promoting eco-friendly practices. This approach not only enhances the functionality of the building but also demonstrates an awareness of environmental responsibility.

Casa Curva Yoga House engages with its natural setting through carefully designed circular forms and a balance of indoor and outdoor spaces. Each element works together to create a tranquil environment for yoga, allowing users to connect with both the structure and the landscape surrounding it.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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