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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.

<p>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.</p><p><strong><em>Material Harmony and Environmental Sensitivity</em></strong></p><p>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.</p>

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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