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Elevated Timber Structure Featuring Expansive Glazing and Sustainable Design in a Forest Setting

Authors:
Idil Berktaş, Kaan Açkalmaz, Eylül Olmuş, Mehmet özgüç Kahrıman
Elevated Timber Structure Featuring Expansive Glazing and Sustainable Design in a Forest Setting
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An elevated timber structure with expansive glazing and a focus on sustainable practices creates a harmonious environment for yoga and meditation in a serene forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure minimizes site disturbance and preserves underlying vegetation.
02
Extensive use of large glass panels enhances natural light and views of the forest.
03
Rainwater harvesting system supports sustainable water management practices.
04
Movable partitions allow flexible space usage for varying group activities.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.

## Project Overview

The Vrikshasana Yoga House in Jaunpe, Latvia, is designed as a dedicated space for yoga practitioners, situated within a lush forest environment. The intent of the project is to create a tranquil setting that emphasizes the relationship between individuals and nature, fostering mental well-being and physical balance through its architectural form and spatial organization.

## Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The internal layout is carefully organized into distinct public and private areas, contributing to functional circulation throughout the building. Public spaces, including a corridor lined with timber screen walls, facilitate movement while creating an interplay of light and shadow. The yoga studio is strategically located to provide expansive views of the surrounding forest, featuring large glass panels that enhance the connection to nature and allow ample natural light. The studio's adaptable design accommodates various activities by enabling flexible configurations, such as the concealment of tables to open up the space for yoga practice.

Private areas consist of two en-suite double bedrooms designed for comfort and seclusion. These spaces are connected to the main yoga studio via an inviting corridor, which promotes social interaction while simultaneously allowing for privacy.

## Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The material selection for the Vrikshasana Yoga House emphasizes warmth and sustainability. Timber, used extensively for both structure and cladding, reinforces the building's integration with its natural surroundings. In addition, large sliding and fixed glass panels are employed to create transparency and enhance daylighting, while concrete and steel provide durability and structural stability. Elevated on wooden stilts, the design minimizes site disturbance, allowing the native landscape to thrive beneath.

Sustainable features are incorporated throughout, including roof overhangs, solar panels, and a rainwater catchment system, all designed to reduce environmental impact and reliance on utilities. Attention to natural ventilation is evident through strategic window placements and vertical sun shades, promoting user comfort and reinforcing the building's low-impact design approach.

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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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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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