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Elevated Timber Retreat with Photovoltaic Sustainability Features

Authors:
Raffaella Stanisz, Marcelina Pilarczyk
Elevated Timber Retreat with Photovoltaic Sustainability Features

Project in-detail

Elevated above the natural landscape, this retreat integrates timber construction with photovoltaic panels to enhance sustainability while providing a space for yoga and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design preserves the natural landscape beneath.
02
Natural ventilation is enhanced by a central garden space.
03
Photovoltaic panels provide energy for heating and lighting.
04
Grey-water recycling system supports sustainable water use.
05
The yoga practice hall offers panoramic views of the surroundings.

The GÊMEOS Yoga Retreat is located in Vale de Moses, an area characterized by its peaceful pine forests and stunning natural beauty. The retreat offers a space for self-reflection and personal growth, encouraging visitors to find balance. The design concept is based on the idea of “Gemeos,” or twins, representing harmony and a deep connection to the landscape.

Design Concept

The design focuses on balance and a connection with nature. Visitors are welcomed by a wooden stairway that leads them from the main route into the heart of the retreat. This pathway provides a gradual transition, allowing individuals to fully engage with the peaceful environment. The yoga practice hall is thoughtfully situated to enhance the experience of nature, making it easily accessible.



Natural Ventilation

A garden is an essential feature of the retreat, acting as a cooling center that supports natural ventilation. Warm air escapes through carefully placed windows, while cooler air from the garden flows in, creating a comfortable indoor climate without mechanical cooling. This interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces fosters a strong connection to the natural surroundings.



Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a key aspect of the retreat. Photovoltaic panels on the roof capture solar energy to power critical systems, such as heating. The elevated design of the building protects the biologically active area below, minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, a grey-water system recycles treated water for irrigation and sanitation, demonstrating effective resource management.



Architectural Elements

The retreat includes an elongated roof that provides shade, helping to maintain a comfortable atmosphere inside. This design choice not only enhances thermal comfort but also fits well within the surrounding landscape. Massive timber walls emphasize a natural material choice, supporting the focus on ecological design.



The combination of these elements creates a tranquil environment that encourages contemplation and connection with nature. The yoga practice hall, with its large windows and abundant natural light, serves as a centerpiece, embodying the peaceful spirit of the GÊMEOS Yoga Retreat.

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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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