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Elevated Concrete Pillars and Natural Stone Create a Harmonious Yoga Retreat in a Forested Setting

Author:
Arnoud Stavenuiter
Elevated Concrete Pillars and Natural Stone Create a Harmonious Yoga Retreat in a Forested Setting

Project in-detail

Elevated on concrete pillars, this retreat seamlessly integrates natural stone and locally sourced wood to create a tranquil haven for yoga and meditation amidst the serene forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure features elevated concrete pillars, minimizing land disturbance and maximizing airflow beneath.
02
Locally sourced wood is used extensively, enhancing the building’s connection to its natural surroundings.
03
An innovative grey water recycling system supports irrigation, promoting water conservation throughout the property.
04
Large expanses of glass provide unobstructed views of the forest, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
The multi-purpose outdoor terrace is designed for versatility, accommodating yoga sessions, meditation, and community gatherings.
The Vale de Moses Yoga House is an architectural project designed to serve as a retreat for yoga practitioners, promoting wellness and relaxation in a tranquil environment. The building embodies a philosophy of simplicity, focusing on the interplay between the natural landscape and the built form, creating an atmosphere that encourages mindfulness and connection with nature.

The primary function of the yoga house is to provide a serene space for physical and mental rejuvenation. Housing communal areas for dining, socializing, and practicing yoga, the project caters to diverse needs within a cohesive design framework. The layout is characterized by an open concept that prioritizes natural light and views of the surrounding forests, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

One of the significant design features is the careful integration of the building into its natural context. Constructed within a forested area, the yoga house utilizes an elevated base that minimizes disruption to the landscape. This elevated structure is supported by concrete columns, which also allows for ventilation underneath, further promoting an eco-friendly approach to its construction. The use of local materials such as concrete, natural stone, and wood highlights a commitment to sustainability while ensuring that the architecture remains grounded in the environment it inhabits.

The spatial organization of the Vale de Moses Yoga House is deliberate and multifunctional. The ground floor acts as a communal hub, featuring a spacious dining area and kitchen where residents can gather. This openness fosters a sense of community and encourages social interaction among guests. Large windows provide uninterrupted views of the valley, allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces while creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments.

On the first floor, the design emphasizes flexibility and functionality, incorporating dedicated yoga studios that are large enough to accommodate groups while allowing for personal meditation and reflection. The layout is intentionally uncluttered, promoting a sense of calm that resonates with the spiritual essence of yoga practices. Expansive glass walls invite the surrounding beauty of the landscape inside, reinforcing the idea that nature is an integral part of the retreat experience.

The top floor features an outdoor yoga terrace that capitalizes on the height of the building, offering panoramic views that enhance spiritual practices. This space is adaptable for various uses, whether for yoga sessions, meditation, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The inclusion of fabric screens provides shade and flexibility, further illustrating the design's responsiveness to environmental conditions.

Sustainability is a core principle reflected throughout the architectural design. The installation of photovoltaic panels on the roof underscores a commitment to renewable energy sources, allowing the building to operate largely independently. Furthermore, an innovative grey water system has been incorporated to facilitate water conservation, utilizing recycled water for irrigation within the landscape.

What distinguishes the Vale de Moses Yoga House is not merely its functionality but its holistic approach to architecture. The design principles prioritize well-being, community, and sustainability, creating a retreat that harmonizes with its surroundings while serving the practical needs of its users. The building represents a conscious response to the growing demand for spaces that foster personal growth and mindfulness in today’s fast-paced world.

For those intrigued by the architectural ideas and concepts behind this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and specific design elements presented can provide further insights into how the Vale de Moses Yoga House achieves its goals effectively. By examining these aspects, readers can gain a deeper understanding of how thoughtful architecture can enhance well-being and community living.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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