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Helophyte-Driven Greywater System in a Sustainable Yoga Retreat

Authors:
Soujanya Krishnaprasad, Pierre Kauter
Helophyte-Driven Greywater System in a Sustainable Yoga Retreat
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A greywater system using helophytes efficiently recycles water while supporting a diverse landscape, all within a sustainable retreat designed for yoga practice.
5 key facts about this project
01
Helophytes in the greywater system promote water recycling and enhance plant growth.
02
Indoor and outdoor yoga spaces create a strong connection with nature.
03
Native plant species are prioritized to support local biodiversity.
04
Composting toilets integrate waste management with ecological principles.
05
Slate roofing and wood elements reinforce local material usage and sustainability.

The Vale de Moses project is located in a diverse landscape designed to connect built environments with nature. The goal is to create a space for yoga practice that emphasizes ecological sustainability and personal well-being. The design concept revolves around regeneration, fostering a relationship between human activity and the surrounding environment.

Design Concept

At the heart of the design is the idea of regeneration, reflecting the changing nature of both people and their environments. The layout encourages connections with nature, offering both indoor and outdoor areas for yoga practitioners. This design enhances sensory experiences. Functional spaces, including a yoga hall, kitchen, and shower facilities, support a holistic approach to wellness that is central to the vision.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability plays an important role in the Vale de Moses design. Greywater systems, sourced from showers and treated with helophytes, represent a practical approach to managing resources. This system recycles water, showing a commitment to environmental stewardship. Additionally, urine-diverting composting toilets are included, ensuring that practical needs align with ecological responsibilities.

Landscape Integration

The landscape surrounding Vale de Moses significantly enhances the user experience. The design plans for the removal of non-native plants to promote biodiversity. This change encourages the growth of native flora and fauna. Specific tree species are chosen for their ecological benefits, including nitrogen fixation and edible products. This emphasis on landscape regeneration supports both ecological balance and a deeper connection to the environment.

Materials and Aesthetics

The selected materials reinforce the relationship with the natural setting. The structure incorporates slate roofing, wooden purlins, solid wood beams, and hemp insulation. These choices not only provide structural stability but also enhance visual appeal. Together, they create a harmonious blend of form and function that resonates with the project's core principles.

The yoga hall includes large windows that allow natural light to fill the space. These openings provide views of the surrounding landscape, deepening user engagement with nature. The connection between indoor and outdoor areas becomes a defining element of the experience at Vale de Moses.

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