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

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Competition organisers

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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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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