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A Vastu-Aligned Retreat Rooted in Balance and Ecology

Authors:
Marius Voica, Iuliana Liubomeiscaia, Claudia-Nicoleta Visterineanu
A Vastu-Aligned Retreat Rooted in Balance and Ecology

Project in-detail

The design for this space for yoga and meditation is guided by the principles of Vastu Shastra. Set in a quiet natural environment, the project emphasizes harmony between built form and nature, bringing together spiritual practice and sustainable design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spatial organization follows Vastu principles to promote harmony and well-being.
02
Crafted entirely from cross-laminated timber, reducing the carbon footprint.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
The bent A-frame design enhances structural integrity while allowing natural light.
05
Native landscaping integrates biodiversity and minimizes irrigation needs.

Set in a peaceful natural setting, the project is guided by the belief that architecture should foster inner balance and well-being. Drawing from Vastu principles, the layout enhances natural energy flow while maintaining strong visual and sensory ties to the landscape. At the center is the main yoga hall, positioned to benefit from natural light and cross-ventilation. Surrounding this core are clearly defined zones for meditation, living, and dining—each aligned to support clarity of movement and function.

Material Harmony and Environmental Sensitivity

Elevated structures follow the site's natural contours, reducing ecological disruption and promoting a light footprint. Indigenous plantings support local biodiversity and reinforce the project’s environmental intent. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) serves as the primary structural material, offering both durability and a reduced carbon impact. Interiors feature a combination of timber surfaces, large glazed openings, soft textiles, and natural stone, creating spaces that are warm, tactile, and calm. Through its considered use of materials and orientation, the design cultivates a quiet connection between mind, body, and the surrounding landscape.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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