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Elevated Yoga Studio with Darkened Wood Cladding and Natural Integration

Authors:
John Smylie, Abdelkader Saadi
Elevated Yoga Studio with Darkened Wood Cladding and Natural Integration

Project in-detail

Set against a steep, wooded backdrop, the yoga studio elevates practice through a unique combination of darkened wood cladding and strategically designed openings that enhance natural ventilation and views of the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design maximizes panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Darkened wood cladding enhances integration with the natural environment.
03
Natural ventilation is achieved through strategically placed openings.
04
Shaded outdoor areas promote relaxation and interaction with nature.
05
Sustainable heating systems utilize an underground heat pump.

The design presents a thoughtful integration within a natural environment. Set on a steep, wooded site, there is a clear emphasis on connecting with the surrounding landscape while maintaining functionality for users. The Yoga House includes important spaces like an entrance, reception, changing rooms, and a yoga studio. These areas are arranged in a sequence that runs parallel to the cliff, making effective use of the site’s narrow dimensions.

Site Response

The form of the building is shaped by the site’s topography and views. The roof follows the slope of the adjacent access road, reinforcing a connection with the terrain. This design approach allows the building to blend with its surroundings, causing minimal disruption to the natural ecology.

Spatial Organization

Inside, individuals transition from the entrance and changing areas to the yoga studio through a staircase that leads to elevated views. This design encourages users to engage with their surroundings progressively, culminating in a wide vista that enhances the overall experience. Elevating the yoga studio also creates shaded space for a garden below, fostering outdoor activities and a connection to nature.

Material Consideration

Material choices are significant in this design. The foundation utilizes concrete to minimize ecological impact. The main structure is made from sustainably sourced timber, reflecting a commitment to responsible design practices. The exterior is clad in darkened treated wood, which is intended to age along with the forest, helping the building harmonize with its natural setting.

Sustainability Features

Natural ventilation is an essential feature of the design. Well-placed openings allow for comfortable airflow, reducing the need for mechanical systems. An underground heat pump offers efficient heating. The roof has been designed to support solar panels, which will help with energy needs, and it allows for the collection of rainwater for toilets and irrigation systems.

The roof of the yoga studio is lifted at its western corner, providing clear views of the landscape. It draws the gaze toward the horizon, enhancing the connection to the site and inviting a sense of peace.

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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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