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Curvilinear Zen Garden Crafted From Locally-Sourced Timber and Natural Stone

Author:
Sumaya Ben saad
Curvilinear Zen Garden Crafted From Locally-Sourced Timber and Natural Stone

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms and a Zen Garden interspersed with locally-sourced timber and durable stone create a serene environment dedicated to wellness and yoga practice on a cliffside retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear building shape enhances natural light and views.
02
Zen Garden incorporates native plants, promoting local biodiversity.
03
Use of rubble stone provides thermal mass and energy efficiency.
04
Locally-sourced timber supports regional forestry practices.
05
Polycarbonate roof allows diffuse daylight while maintaining insulation.
The Yoga House in Vale de Moisés is a thoughtfully designed architectural project that serves as a retreat space focused on wellness and yoga practice. Positioned on a cliff, the design emphasizes a strong connection between the structure and its natural surroundings. The project features two main functional components: the yoga studio and a service building. The use of natural light and open spaces enhances the user experience and promotes a sense of tranquility and mindfulness.

The yoga studio, constructed primarily from locally sourced wood, provides an inviting environment for practitioners. Its design allows for flexible configurations, accommodating various group sizes and activities. The service building, made of rubble stone, offers essential support facilities, including storage and restrooms, ensuring that the primary focus remains on wellness activities without distraction. The layout encourages an intuitive flow between spaces, with a pathway seamlessly integrating the outdoor and indoor environments.

Thoughtful Design Approaches

What sets the Yoga House apart from typical architectural designs is its careful consideration of materiality and environmental integration. Locally cut wood minimizes the carbon footprint, fostering a connection to the region's natural resources. The polycarbonate roof allows filtered daylight into the yoga space while maintaining energy efficiency, enhancing the overall comfort of occupants. The combination of these materials not only fulfills functional requirements but also embodies the principles of sustainability.

The project incorporates a Zen Garden that functions not only as a visual centerpiece but also as a retreat for meditation and reflection. This garden, crafted to resonate with the natural topography, emphasizes the connection between human activity and the environment. Such features distinguish the Vale de Moisés Yoga House from more conventional structures, as it promotes an immersive experience that encourages users to engage with nature actively.

Architectural Features and Functionality

The architectural layout emphasizes harmony between internal and external environments. The open design of the yoga studio allows for unobstructed views of the landscape, fostering a deeper sense of tranquility and connectedness. The strategic orientation of the buildings maximizes natural light exposure while minimizing energy consumption. Each space is created with intentionality, aiming to facilitate meditation, yoga practice, and community gathering.

The incorporation of passive energy strategies—including the orientation of the Zen Garden and the architectural form—ensures a comfortable environment year-round. The blend of robust and soft architectural elements highlights a unique balance, enhancing users' physical and mental experiences.

For further details on the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, it is encouraged to explore the full project presentation. The analysis of architectural elements provides valuable insights into the design and functionality of the Yoga House in Vale de Moisés.
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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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