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Curvilinear Timber Modules Embrace Natural Tranquility in a Shared Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Olivia Siri, Marta Malpartita moreno
Curvilinear Timber Modules Embrace Natural Tranquility in a Shared Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Modular timber forms intertwine with the natural landscape to create a tranquil wellness retreat that prioritizes meditation and community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modules are designed to accommodate multiple functions, allowing for flexible use.
02
The design incorporates curvilinear pathways that enhance the connection between spaces.
03
Local laminated pine wood is the primary material, promoting regional craftsmanship.
04
Features open-air meditation rooms that blend indoor and outdoor experiences.
05
Each unit is oriented to maximize views of the surrounding landscape.

Vale de Moses yoga retreat is located in central Portugal, where the serene landscape provides an ideal backdrop for reflection and mindfulness. The retreat aims to connect visitors with the surrounding nature, presenting a design that reflects traditional building practices adapted for modern use. It focuses on creating spaces that support relaxation, healing, and community within a peaceful environment.

Architecture Concept

The design integrates the buildings with the natural forms of the valley and mountains. This relationship encourages a genuine connection between the inhabitants and their environment. By using a modular approach, the layout accommodates various activities while remaining respectful of the local architectural style.

Materials and Structure

Timber serves as the main construction material, specifically laminated pine wood, chosen for its availability and suitability. The retreat features a series of wood structure modules that fulfill both structural and functional roles. These modules support activities such as meditation, treatment, and social gatherings. They are oriented to enhance views, creating inviting spaces for tranquility.

Spatial Arrangement

The arrangement of the modules is carefully considered, incorporating personal cabins, lookout areas, and open-air meditation spaces. Curving pathways connect these elements, allowing visitors to explore the site comfortably. The main cabin takes a simple rectangular form, designed to provide essential activities while fostering interaction among guests.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is an important focus throughout the design. It promotes local craftsmanship and considers environmental impacts during construction. The structure is designed for easy assembly and disassembly. Natural ventilation and solar heating further support energy efficiency and align with ecological values.

Every detail contributes to a thoughtful experience, from the careful orientation of the modules to the outdoors, to gathering spaces that invite quiet reflection against the backdrop of beautiful natural scenery.

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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

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