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Curvilinear Design Featuring Locally Sourced Timber and Expansive Glass for a Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Osama Salti, Monty Lipphardt, Michael Korn
Curvilinear Design Featuring Locally Sourced Timber and Expansive Glass for a Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

A curvilinear structure of locally sourced timber and expansive glass harmonizes with the forested landscape, creating a serene retreat designed for yoga and wellness activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure utilizes locally sourced timber to minimize environmental impact and promote regional craftsmanship.
02
Curvilinear forms are strategically designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, enhancing aesthetic continuity.
03
Large glass panels not only foster natural light but also provide unobstructed views of the forest ecosystem.
04
Pilotis elevate the building, allowing for improved air circulation and reduced ecological disturbance to the terrain.
05
The layout includes flexible wellness spaces, accommodating a range of activities from yoga to meditation retreats.
Casa de Relaxa is an architecture project located in Vale de Moses, Portugal, designed with a deep respect for the surrounding natural landscape. The building embodies the principles of modern design while prioritizing sustainability and the user experience. This project serves as a retreat for relaxation and mindfulness, offering a tranquil environment that encourages both individual contemplation and shared experiences.

The architectural design is characterized by its curvilinear form, which contrasts with the traditional boxy structures often seen in contemporary architecture. This organic shape not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building but also allows for a seamless integration into the existing topography. The structure is raised on pilotis, elevating it above the ground and reducing its ecological footprint. This design approach minimizes site disruption while promoting effective air circulation and water drainage.

Functionally, Casa de Relaxa serves as a space for yoga and other wellness activities. The interior features a spacious yoga room, which provides flexibility for various practices. Large windows throughout the building create a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to permeate every corner and offering views that are intentionally framed by the architecture. The emphasis on natural light is central to the overall design philosophy, as it fosters a soothing atmosphere that aligns with the retreat’s purpose of relaxation and renewal.

Key components of the design include a 35-square-meter terrace that extends the usable area beyond the walls of the building, promoting outdoor activities and social interactions among visitors. Additional facilities, such as bathrooms and showers, are strategically located to accommodate both individual use and group activities, ensuring comfort for all who visit this retreat.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the overall integrity of Casa de Relaxa. The primary material employed is timber, chosen for both its aesthetic properties and sustainability. This locally sourced wood enhances the warmth of the interior while minimizing the environmental impact of the construction. Complementing the timber, extensive use of glass creates transparency throughout the structure, inviting the lush landscape into the daily experience of its users. High-quality insulation materials contribute to the building's energy efficiency, providing a comfortable environment regardless of the season. A pitched metal roof adds durability while also addressing rainwater management, further highlighting the project’s commitment to sustainability.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout Casa de Relaxa, notably in its ability to function not just as a personal retreat but as a communal space for connection and shared experiences. The building's organic form fosters a sense of tranquility, encouraging visitors to step away from the chaos of daily life and engage with nature in a meaningful way. Furthermore, the project redefines traditional concepts of architectural space by prioritizing user experience over mere aesthetics.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs of Casa de Relaxa reveals the thoughtful considerations made in its conception. Each detail has been meticulously planned to ensure that the building not only serves its intended purpose but also enhances the overall wellness experience. For those interested in understanding more about this innovative architectural endeavor, an examination of the project's presentation can provide valuable insights into its design principles and functional aspects. By delving into the nuanced elements of Casa de Relaxa, one can appreciate how architecture can reconcile modern living with the enduring beauty of nature.
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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
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