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Elevated Red Timber Structure Enhances Connection with Nature Through Modular Design

Authors:
Minji Kim, James Frolow
Elevated Red Timber Structure Enhances Connection with Nature Through Modular Design
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Elevated on sturdy pillars, a modular structure of red timber integrates with the landscape, providing a serene space for yoga and mindfulness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design minimizes ground impact and enhances thermal comfort.
02
Modular walls allow for flexible use and easy future adaptations.
03
Operable louvers on the pitched roof optimize light and temperature control.
04
Locally sourced red timber emphasizes sustainability and regional craftsmanship.
05
Open layout fosters a strong connection to the surrounding natural landscape.

Celeiro de Ioga is a yoga house located in the quiet hills of Oleiros, Portugal. Designed to support healing and mindfulness, the building draws from traditional Portuguese granary architecture while offering a modern twist. The concept is centered around creating a tranquil environment for yoga practitioners, encouraging a deep connection with the surrounding nature.

Architectural Form

Pillars elevate the building above the ground, reducing its impact on the landscape while keeping unwanted pests away. This design choice allows the structure to have a lighter footprint and improves thermal comfort within the building. The layout considers the local climate, which includes hot, dry summers and cool, damp winters, creating a suitable space for relaxation.

Ventilation and Modularity

The walls are designed as modular cubes that enhance the building's flexibility. Each cube can adapt to different environmental conditions, making it easy to accommodate various uses over time. This modular design approach promotes sustainability, allowing for changes without extensive renovations while remaining functional and efficient.

Dynamic Roofing

The roof is pitched and made from red timber sourced locally. It features operable louvers that can be adjusted to control sunlight entering the space. This aspect of the design helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and provides shade when needed. It also contributes to the overall aesthetic, creating a balance between form and function.

Spatial Connectivity

The layout encourages easy movement between indoor and outdoor areas. Large windows and openings allow natural light to flood the interior while framing views of the beautiful landscape outside. This connection to nature is essential for a yoga practice, as it reinforces a sense of peace and calm. Small design details throughout the building help to create an inviting and relaxing atmosphere for all who enter.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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