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Floating Wellness Retreat Crafted From Cross-Laminated Timber And Natural Stone

Authors:
Giuseppe Vultaggio, Weiwei Mao
Floating Wellness Retreat Crafted From Cross-Laminated Timber And Natural Stone

Project in-detail

Elevated above the landscape, the structure's unique floating design, constructed from cross-laminated timber and stone, creates an immersive sanctuary for yoga and meditation enthusiasts seeking harmony with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles, providing a distinct aesthetic while increasing durability against weathering.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Includes interstitial Engawa spaces, promoting fluidity between interior and exterior environments.
05
Integrates solar panels into the roof design, ensuring energy efficiency in supporting wellness activities.
The Yoga House is an architectural project that embodies a serene and purposeful design, aimed at fostering tranquility and wellness through space. Set within a natural landscape, the structure’s concept of being a "flying building" reflects an intention to seamlessly integrate with its environment. This integration facilitates a profound connection between the occupants and nature, which is essential for the functions of yoga and meditation that the building hosts.

Functionally, the Yoga House is designed to serve as a multifaceted space for various practices related to yoga, meditation, and relaxation. It encompasses dedicated areas for yoga and meditation, complemented by essential amenities like changing rooms, a kitchenette, and storage spaces. The layout promotes versatility, allowing for both group and private sessions, with spaces that can accommodate different forms of practice. Key elements like the main yoga space, free yoga area, and outdoor terraces are laid out to encourage a fluid experience between indoor activities and the natural surroundings.

One of the project’s distinctive features is its spatial organization, which thoughtfully considers the flow from one area to another. Interstitial spaces, referred to as "Engawa," act as transitional zones that encourage occupants to engage with the outdoors. These spaces not only facilitate movement within the building but also serve as areas for contemplation and connection with nature. This approach promotes a holistic experience, where the boundaries between inside and outside blur, reinforcing the essence of yoga as a practice that connects body, mind, and environment.

Material selection plays a significant role in the design of the Yoga House, with an emphasis on sustainability and harmony with its locale. The project utilizes wood beams and wooden planks to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while stone pavements provide durability and a sense of grounding. The inclusion of solar panels emphasizes a commitment to renewable energy, further enhancing the building’s sustainable qualities. Together, these materials contribute to an environment that feels both intimate and expansive, allowing light to penetrate the interior while respecting the natural landscape.

Thoughtful landscaping enhances the architectural design, creating a rich sensory experience that complements the yoga practices held within. Zen gardens and meditation areas are integrated into the site, encouraging mindfulness and tranquil reflection. The terraces provide a vantage point for users to appreciate the surrounding scenery, engaging with the environment at various levels. This approach extends the architectural dialogue beyond the building itself, embedding wellness into the landscape.

In addition to the spatial and material considerations, the Yoga House stands out for its unique architectural approach to designing wellness spaces. By positioning the building on a steep slope and emphasizing the concept of floating, the design evokes a sense of lightness and elevation. This not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the structure but also aligns with the philosophies of yoga, which advocate for harmony and balance. Moreover, the architectural manifestation of these ideas encourages users to feel uplifted, both literally and metaphorically, as they engage with the space.

The Yoga House, through its intentional architecture and design, serves as a sanctuary for individuals seeking a deeper connection to their practices and the natural world. With its focus on sustainability, thoughtful materiality, and an integrated approach to landscaping, the project represents an architectural narrative that prioritizes wellness. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of architectural plans, architectural sections, and the underlying architectural ideas that define this project, a closer examination of the presentation will provide deeper insights into its design ethos and innovative approaches.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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