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Elevated Structure Featuring Expansive Glass Facades and Sustainable Wood Cladding for Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Reinaldo Chong, Emma Pezoa
Elevated Structure Featuring Expansive Glass Facades and Sustainable Wood Cladding for Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

An elevated wellness center with expansive glass facades and a unique combination of sustainable wood cladding and thermal insulation offers a serene environment for yoga and meditation in harmony with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The wellness center employs an elevated design, minimizing land disturbance while enhancing views.
02
Large expanses of glass create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, inviting natural light and scenery.
03
Sustainable wood cladding features charred shingles, offering both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
04
A bent A-frame design not only enhances structural integrity but also adds a unique silhouette to the landscape.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for their strength and thermal efficiency, promoting energy conservation.
This architectural design project is a wellness center situated in a picturesque landscape characterized by rolling hills and lush greenery. The project embodies a vision that prioritizes harmony between the built environment and nature, with the main focus on creating a serene atmosphere that supports physical and mental well-being. By thoughtfully integrating the structure into its surroundings, the design seeks to enhance the experience of users through a meaningful interaction with the landscape.

Functionally, the wellness center is designed to accommodate various activities centered on health and relaxation. Spaces include a large yoga studio, meditation areas, and communal gathering rooms, all arranged to facilitate both individual reflection and social interaction. The layout promotes a sense of flow, ensuring that users can transition seamlessly from one activity to another while enjoying uninterrupted views of the natural surroundings.

The architectural design employs a series of innovative approaches that distinguish it from traditional wellness centers. One notable feature is the elevated structure which rests on stilts, allowing for a minimal footprint on the land. This elevation serves multiple purposes: it enhances visibility into the scenic views, improves air circulation, and reduces site disruption. The result is a building that feels both integrated with the landscape and elevated above it, creating a unique vantage point for users.

Material choice plays a crucial role in the overall design and experience of the wellness center. A harmonious mix of wood, concrete, metal, and glass is utilized throughout the structure. The warm tones of the wood provide a comforting and inviting atmosphere, while the concrete foundation offers durability and a sense of permanence. Metal elements are incorporated in the cladding and structural details, contributing to a modern aesthetic that balances the organic qualities of wood. Expansive glass windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light, flooding the interior with sunshine and connecting users with the outdoors. This thoughtful selection of materials speaks to the project's commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency, reflecting contemporary architectural practices.

Key elements of the design include the large communal areas that foster collaboration and interaction among users. The yoga studio is designed with expansive glass walls that not only allow for scenic views but also create a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor environments. Additionally, shaded areas and overhangs are incorporated into the design to provide comfort from the elements, without compromising on natural light.

Unique design approaches evident in this project include the integration of brise soleil devices that mitigate heat and control glare, effectively enhancing user comfort. The relationship between the interior spaces and their surroundings is carefully considered, allowing for a range of experiences that encourage mindfulness and relaxation. Elements such as a gentle slope in the roofline contribute to the overall aesthetic, combining practicality with visual appeal.

The architectural plans, sections, and designs demonstrate a clear intention to cater to the needs of its users while maintaining respect for the environment. The careful thought given to user experience is apparent in every facet of the project from layout to material selection, showcasing an architecture that is both functional and meaningful.

For those interested in exploring this architectural journey further, it is beneficial to review the comprehensive architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs that highlight the project’s thoughtful approach to wellness and environmental integration. Discovering the full presentation will offer deeper insights into how these architectural ideas come together to create a cohesive and inviting space for health and well-being.
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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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