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Elevated Sanctuary with Concrete and Wooden Serenity

Author:
Ju seok Park
Elevated Sanctuary with Concrete and Wooden Serenity

Project in-detail

Rising above a sloping landscape, the design harmoniously integrates concrete and wood to create a tranquil sanctuary for yoga and meditation, reflecting the core principles of mindfulness and emotional well-being.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique piloti structure elevates the building, enhancing views and connection to the landscape.
02
Dark, enclosed entry space creates a sensory contrast before transitioning to an open, bright yoga room.
03
The design incorporates a narrow corridor that heightens anticipation as users approach the main practice area.
04
Large windows on both ends of the yoga room maximize natural light and promote a sense of openness.
05
Materials include a wooden roof and concrete walls, emphasizing harmony with the surrounding environment.

The design located in a remote region of Portugal near Vale de Moses focuses on the principles of yoga, creating a space for practice and meditation. It emphasizes the transition from physical postures known as 'asana' to the meditative moments brought about by 'pranayama'. The architecture blends with the natural surroundings, fostering both mental and emotional well-being through thoughtful spatial design.

Structure and Composition

The building is raised on piloti, effectively responding to the sloping terrain. The entrance features a staircase and columns, while a bridge extends out, enhancing the feeling of elevation. This arrangement resembles the balanced form of a lotus flower, inviting visitors to connect with both the architecture and the landscape.

Spatial Journey

Upon entry, individuals find themselves in a dark, enclosed area that evokes a sense of tension, mirroring the challenges faced during meditation. Moving forward, there is a significant ascent up centrally located stairs. This leads to a bright area designed for relaxation and thoughtful reflection.

Mood and Atmosphere

Deep within the design lies a narrow corridor that builds anticipation as visitors approach the yoga room. High ceilings and windows on both ends fill this space with natural light, promoting an open feeling. The changing light throughout the day creates a dynamic atmosphere that encourages users to engage deeply with their surroundings.

Materials and Aesthetics

The choice of materials supports the overall purpose of the design and enhances its visual appeal. A wooden roof and wooden exterior walls provide warmth and a sense of welcome, while exposed concrete structures ensure stability. Large windows and sliding doors connect the indoors with nature, and glass railings allow for unobstructed views, reinforcing the feeling of openness and connection.

This mixture of spatial elements culminates in a design that fosters mindfulness and self-reflection, enhancing the experience of yoga within a calm and supportive environment.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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