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Curvilinear Design with Local Stone and Sustainable Solar Panels for a Wellness Retreat

Authors:
María eugenia Contreras, Bárbara Di frisco, Ran Shporer, Juan eugenio Rosemberg
Curvilinear Design with Local Stone and Sustainable Solar Panels for a Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Combining a curvilinear form with locally sourced stone and large glass elements, the building seamlessly integrates into its cliffside location to provide a tranquil retreat for wellness and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stone to create a seamless blend with the surrounding landscape.
02
Incorporates large expanses of glass for maximizing natural light and views.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity on a cliffside.
04
Employs sustainable cross-laminated timber panels for eco-friendly construction.
05
Includes a Zen garden that integrates native plants for promoting biodiversity.
The Mountain’s Gaze yoga house is a thoughtfully designed architectural project set against the backdrop of the Montes de Serra da Estrella region. This structure serves as a retreat space aimed at promoting wellness and mindfulness. Its design reflects a commitment to sustainability and a deep connection with the natural landscape. The yoga house caters to individuals seeking tranquility and rejuvenation, utilizing its elevated position to create a harmonious environment conducive to meditation and reflection.

Environmental Integration and Material Selection

A key feature of the Mountain’s Gaze project is its integration into the climactic landscape. The architecture employs local stone for the lower façade, ensuring that the building blends seamlessly with the rocky terrain. Reinforced concrete is used strategically to provide structural stability, particularly given the cliffside location. The upper sections of the building utilize wood to enhance warmth and create an organic aesthetic, while expansive glass elements allow natural light to flow into the interior spaces. The stained glass windows not only augment visual appeal but also have functional roles in shaping the indoor atmosphere. This choice of materiality adheres to sustainable practices, including solar panels on the roof, which harness renewable energy.

Functional Layout and Interior Design

The floor plan of the yoga house is engineered for openness and interaction with nature. Yoga studios are purposefully positioned to provide occupants with uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape. The incorporation of high ceilings amplifies the sense of space and encourages a feeling of freedom indoors. Native landscaping surrounds the building, promoting biodiversity and ecological education, while pathways are designed to navigate the site organically. The layout encourages a flow that connects the yoga practice areas with reflection points, including a Zen garden and water features, enhancing the overall user experience.

Unique Architectural Approaches

The Mountain’s Gaze project distinguishes itself through its dual focus on architectural form and environmental sensitivity. The balance between aesthetics and ecological impact is deliberate, ensuring that the structure does not disrupt but rather enhances its natural surroundings. The curvilinear design facilitates a visual connection with the contours of the cliff and the expansive views below. This design philosophy prioritizes sustainability not only in material choices but also in the overall impact on the site’s ecosystem. By promoting a minimal footprint and maximizing natural light, the project exemplifies responsible architecture that aligns with contemporary environmental goals.

For those interested in diving deeper into the specifics of the Mountain’s Gaze yoga house, further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs provides valuable insights into its innovative approaches and functional considerations. Examining these elements will offer a comprehensive understanding of how this project encapsulates thoughtful architectural design.
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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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