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Elevated Yoga Studio With Rammed-Earth Foundations Embraces Natural Canopy

Author:
Julie Gilbert
Elevated Yoga Studio With Rammed-Earth Foundations Embraces Natural Canopy

Project in-detail

Elevated on stilts above the forest floor, the yoga studio integrates rammed-earth foundations with expansive views of the canopy, providing a serene space for mindful practice.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure allows for direct integration with forest environment.
02
Rammed-earth foundations enhance thermal performance and sustainability.
03
Large windows offer panoramic views while optimizing natural light.
04
Movable shading elements control light and climate within the studio.
05
Design preserves existing landscape, minimizing ecological disturbance.

The Terre-à-terre Vale de Moses Yoga House is situated within a unique valley landscape, designed to connect with its natural environment while serving as a space for yoga practice. The building reflects a ‘down to earth’ philosophy, demonstrating a commitment to preserving the existing landscape. Drawing on elements of traditional farmhouses and mountain cabins, the design balances modernity with familiarity.

Architecture Concept

The design focuses on minimizing the ground footprint by placing the structure on a flat area with sparse vegetation. This choice helps to maintain the integrity of the site and enhances views of the surrounding landscape, especially at sunset. The building is oriented according to bioclimatic principles. Openings on the south and west sides allow for passive solar gain in winter, while the east and north façades are more enclosed to minimize heat loss.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the building separates communal and private spaces. The main yoga studio is elevated on stilts, allowing for a direct connection to the nearby forest. This arrangement facilitates abundant natural light and stunning views, enriching the experience of those practicing yoga. Large windows in the studio are equipped with movable shading systems, helping to regulate light and temperature, contributing to a comfortable environment.

Materiality

Materials chosen for the yoga house reflect a focus on local architecture, incorporating elements that resonate with the surrounding landscape. This commitment to locality extends to the design’s operational methods, utilizing environmentally friendly construction techniques. The selected materials are appropriate for the regional climate, enhancing both the aesthetic quality and function of the building.

Sustainability Features

The yoga house emphasizes sustainability to achieve a zero carbon footprint. Natural ventilation systems are in place to create comfortable indoor spaces. Additionally, the expansive roof collects rainwater, which is filtered and stored in a central tank. This approach highlights a commitment to efficient resource use and reinforces the connection to the ecological context of the project.

The large windows of the elevated yoga studio frame beautiful views of the landscape, creating a peaceful setting that complements the practice of yoga.

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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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