Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Yoga Pavilion Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber and Slate in a Latvian Forest

Authors:
Ryo Murata, Yuiko Inoue, Sosuke Nagai, Afifah bintang Umarizka azzahra
Curvilinear Yoga Pavilion Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber and Slate in a Latvian Forest

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber and slate, the curvilinear yoga pavilion harmoniously integrates with the Latvian forest, creating a tranquil retreat that fosters mindfulness and connection to nature through its thoughtfully designed spaces for yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion’s roof features a fluid, curvilinear form inspired by the natural topography of the surrounding forest.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance sustainability while ensuring structural integrity suitable for the boggy Latvian soil.
03
Charred wooden shingles create a visually dynamic texture while providing weather resistance and enhancing durability.
04
Large panoramic windows strategically frame views of the forest, blurring the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
The design incorporates passive airflow techniques, optimizing natural ventilation and reducing reliance on mechanical systems.

## Overview

"Fractions of Nature" is situated in the tranquil landscapes of Latvia, designed as a yoga retreat that integrates eco-tourism with architectural innovation. The intent of the project is to create spaces that encourage a sense of connection to the natural environment, utilizing organic forms and sustainable materials to support the recreational and spiritual activities of its visitors.

### Architectural Composition

The design features a yoga pavilion and two guest houses, characterized by fluid, organic shapes that resonate with the natural topography. The yoga pavilion showcases a curvilinear roof that reflects the waves of the Baltic Sea, providing multipurpose areas for communal activities such as yoga sessions and relaxation. The guest houses are crafted to facilitate both privacy and social interaction, utilizing 360-degree panoramic windows to enhance natural light and views, contributing to a peaceful atmosphere.

### Materiality and Site Strategy

A deliberate selection of materials emphasizes sustainability and coherence with the surrounding environment. The structural framework primarily consists of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), which not only contributes to structural stability but also minimizes carbon emissions. Slate roofing is used for durability in local weather conditions while maintaining visual harmony with the forest backdrop. The elevated foundations, constructed with steel pipe pilings, reduce site disturbance, particularly critical in the region's boggy areas. The overall site plan maximizes natural light and preserves the surrounding flora, while open spaces are intentionally designed for yoga practices and engagement with nature.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy