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Logs and Greenery Create a Cave-Inspired Retreat for Wellness

Author:
Dennis Somelar
Logs and Greenery Create a Cave-Inspired Retreat for Wellness

Project in-detail

Constructed from logs and designed with a cave-like form, the structure harmonizes with the landscape while promoting wellness through yoga and meditation practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from logs, maximizing thermal efficiency.
02
Features cave-like passages for natural ventilation and airflow.
03
Incorporates a wild herb garden designed with herbal specialists.
04
Operates independently with rainwater collection and solar panels.
05
Accommodates 19 users, designed for personalized yoga experiences.

The ESIM YOGA ROOM is located in Vale De Moses, designed to create a serene atmosphere for yoga and meditation. The structure draws inspiration from natural cave systems, aiming to provide safety and a space for reflection. The building harmonizes with its environment while prioritizing user experience and well-being.

Conceptual Framework

At the core of the design is the integration of natural elements and functionality to support mindfulness practices. The layout features a spacious yoga room along with a tea room, dressing room, and semi-outdoor shower. Each area is crafted to encourage relaxation and a strong connection to the outdoors. The yoga room can accommodate 19 people and is meant to invite personalization, allowing guests to feel at home in their practice space.

Structural and Spatial Design

Natural light fills the interior through large windows and carefully placed openings, welcoming the outside in. Passages throughout the building mimic cave shapes, facilitating air movement and maintaining a comfortable temperature inside. A fireplace duct supports ventilation, helping to regulate airflow while keeping the space conducive for yoga sessions by preventing drafts that could disrupt focus.

Sustainability and Material Use

Sustainability is a key feature of the design. The building operates independently when it comes to water, heat, and electricity. The roof includes systems for collecting rainwater, while solar panels provide the necessary energy for lighting and other functions. Logs are the primary construction material. This choice not only promotes quick assembly but also enhances the building's thermal efficiency and sustainability.

Integration with Nature

The project includes a wild herb garden, emphasizing the relationship between the built environment and nature. Collaborating with herbal specialists to design the garden enriches both biodiversity and wellness. Guests can connect with the natural world directly. Views of the surrounding landscape are carefully considered, allowing for a refreshing experience that enhances the use of the space.

The building's gentle shapes and organic lines reflect the natural landscape, creating an environment that feels both calming and inviting. The design encourages contemplation and supports personal growth, making it an ideal setting for yoga and mindfulness practices.

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

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Competition organisers

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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