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Elevated Stone Foundations with Cork Interiors in a Nature-Integrated Wellness Space

Authors:
Beñat Arejula, Ion Vianez, Unai Arejula
Elevated Stone Foundations with Cork Interiors in a Nature-Integrated Wellness Space
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Elevated stone foundations support a wellness space characterized by its cork interiors and integration with the surrounding gardens, creating a serene environment for yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated stone foundation enhances natural ventilation.
02
Cork interiors provide sound insulation and warmth.
03
Designed with multiple independent volumes for diverse functions.
04
Surrounding gardens create seamless transitions with nature.
05
Yoga space features large openings for optimal natural light.

The Yoga Refuge is located in the peaceful surroundings of the Valley of Moses, designed to support yoga practice and meditation. The project features a layout that reflects a close relationship with nature, using a fragmented volume approach. This strategy enhances the experience for users while blending the building into the landscape. With a focus on wellness, the design promotes interaction between the interior spaces and their natural context.

Climate Considerations

The design prioritizes the local climate, influencing how the building fits into its environment. Each of the four volumes is carefully positioned to provide effective sun protection and comfortable temperatures. Surrounding the structure, small gardens refresh the indoor atmosphere and create transitions between the building and its surroundings. These gardens not only enhance the setting but also encourage visitors to engage with nature.

Spatial Arrangement and User Experience

The layout of the Yoga Refuge includes distinct areas for yoga practice, relaxation, and bathing, allowing for smooth movement through the building. This arrangement creates a sensory experience where users are invited to see the path leading to the building as part of their meditative journey. The design emphasizes movement, guiding individuals to feel connected to the space as they move through it.

Materials and Sustainability

Sustainability is an important aspect of the Yoga Refuge, highlighted through the choice of materials. Local wood and natural stone are used in the construction, helping the building connect with its environment while reducing its ecological footprint. The foundation is made from elevated cut stone, which allows for good ventilation. In addition, systems for renewable energy and water management emphasize the commitment to environmental responsibility.

Environmental Integration

The Yoga Refuge establishes a strong connection with its natural surroundings. Large openings invite nature inside, creating a direct dialogue between the interior and the outdoor environment. This design fosters calm and focus, essential for yoga and meditation. The arrangement provides views of the valley, ensuring that the landscape is always present in the experience within the building.

In the central yoga room, natural light streams through large windows, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The gentle sounds of nature enhance the calming experience, making every practice feel like a part of the larger environment.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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