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Curvilinear Design Featuring Terracotta and Green Roofs for a Mindfulness Retreat

Authors:
Julissa Quezada, Amy Grissom
Curvilinear Design Featuring Terracotta and Green Roofs for a Mindfulness Retreat

Project in-detail

The curvilinear roof design combined with terracotta facades and green roofs creates a harmonious retreat focused on mindfulness and yoga within a forested landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear roof enhances natural light and airflow throughout the space.
02
Terracotta facades blend with the surrounding landscape for visual continuity.
03
Green roofs contribute to energy efficiency and habitat creation.
04
Pathway design fosters moments of pause and reflection within the environment.
05
Flexible multi-purpose areas accommodate various activities and group sizes.
The architectural project "Caesura" represents a thoughtful integration of built form within a natural environment, designed to serve as a retreat for yoga and mindfulness activities. Located in a forested landscape, this project emphasizes the connection between human experience and nature. Its layout promotes both individual contemplation and communal engagement, reflecting a design philosophy centered on balance and harmony.

The main structure, known as the "Shala," is situated to enhance the site's natural contours, merging seamlessly into the surroundings. A distinctive feature of the project is its curvilinear roofline, which not only adds visual interest but also minimizes the structure's interruption of the landscape. The design facilitates movement between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring that visitors experience a sense of tranquility while connected to their environment.

Unique Design Approaches

The use of sustainable materials is a significant aspect of "Caesura." Concrete provides structural support, while wooden panels and terracotta bricks introduce warmth and natural textures. Large expanses of glass enhance the visual connection with the outdoors, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior spaces throughout the day. The incorporation of green roofs promotes biodiversity and aids in thermal regulation, further aligning the project with ecological principles.

This project distinguishes itself through its focus on flexible spaces that cater to various activities, allowing multiple configurations for yoga classes, meditation, and community gatherings. The careful design of pathways encourages movement while providing moments of pause, compelling users to engage with the tranquil setting.

Architectural Elements and Functional Spaces

Architectural plans detail a series of interconnected areas designed to facilitate varied interactions. The circulation is carefully composed to encourage exploration, with defined routes leading to different functional spaces while creating visual interest. Multi-purpose zones incorporate features that allow for adaptability, catering to both individual and group activities.

Architectural sections illustrate the balance between open spaces and secluded areas, ensuring a mix of communal and private experiences. The overall layout enhances the users' connection to nature while offering structured environments for relaxation and mindfulness practices.

To gain deeper insights into the architectural ideas and detailed designs of "Caesura," it is beneficial to review the project presentation, which includes architectural plans and sections that further illustrate its innovative approach. Exploring these details will provide a more comprehensive understanding of how the project effectively combines functionality with meaningful design within a natural context.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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
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