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Gabion Walls and Natural Elements in a Tranquil Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Jesus Goncalves, Maria Gonzalez, Maria Gabriela Suarez, Cesar Barbaran
Gabion Walls and Natural Elements in a Tranquil Wellness Retreat
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Constructed with gabion walls and designed around the concept of chakras, the space functions as a wellness retreat that promotes self-discovery and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rooted in the concept of chakras, the design promotes holistic wellness.
02
Gabion walls are constructed using locally sourced rock, integrating with the landscape.
03
A small orchard encourages users to cultivate their own produce on-site.
04
Natural light and ventilation are prioritized to enhance user experience.
05
The zen garden offers a dedicated space for meditation and reflection.

The Yoga House is designed to integrate with its natural surroundings while providing a space focused on wellness and self-discovery. Located in a tranquil environment, the design utilizes the concept of chakras—energy centers in the body—to shape distinct areas that promote both personal reflection and community interaction. This thoughtful approach aims to create a welcoming atmosphere, allowing occupants to feel connected to nature and to each other.

Spatial Organization

The layout includes seven specific areas, each corresponding to a chakra and its unique energy. The entry point features a gabion wall, which serves both a structural purpose and as a visual guide for visitors arriving at the main yoga shala. This design element allows for a smooth transition from the outside world into a space meant for contemplation and gathering.

Functionality and Flow

Each space is crafted to support various activities related to wellness practices. The Root Chakra (I AM) offers a welcoming entry, connecting visitors to the surrounding landscape, while the Sacral Chakra (I FEEL) includes essential service facilities for convenience. Additionally, the Solar Plexus Chakra (I DO) contains a small orchard, encouraging activities that involve personal cultivation. The Heart Chakra (I LOVE) is designed as a kitchenette, fostering social interaction and shared experiences among occupants.

Relationship with Nature

Natural light and ventilation are key components of the design, creating connections between the interior spaces and the environment outside. The Third Eye Chakra (I SEE) includes the yoga shala, which provides views of nature to enhance the calming experience. Nearby, the zen garden in the Crown Chakra (I UNDERSTAND) serves as a quiet space for meditation, encouraging users to unwind and reflect amid nature.

Design Elements

The project incorporates locally sourced gabion walls, filled with rock, to maintain a connection to the local landscape. This choice supports ecological sensitivity and contributes to the overall structure's efficiency. The design emphasizes simplicity and practicality, inviting users to engage fully with their surroundings. Each area resonates with principles of wellness, resulting in a space that enhances personal growth and fosters a sense of community among its users.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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