Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Monolithic Retreat Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber with Expansive Valley Views

Author:
Simon Kim
Monolithic Retreat Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber with Expansive Valley Views

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber, the monolithic structure overlooks expansive valleys, providing a serene environment for yoga and meditation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from cross-laminated timber, emphasizing sustainable building practices.
02
The design features a double-height central studio that enhances light and views.
03
An upper meditation zone offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys.
04
Incorporates thin-film photovoltaic cells for energy efficiency.
05
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize structural integrity and aesthetics.

The Vale de Moses Yoga House is positioned within a setting of steep hills, designed to provide a space for yoga and holistic wellness. The building takes on a carved, solid form that establishes a strong connection with its environment. The design concept focuses on creating an open and tranquil atmosphere, inviting users to embrace both nature and personal reflection in their practice.

Program Organization

The layout consists of three interconnected zones that cater to the diverse needs of a yoga retreat. At the center is a multi-purpose studio designed for yoga sessions and group gatherings. This area encourages interactions among visitors while serving as a dedicated space for physical and mental wellness practices.



Adjacent to the studio, the back-of-house zone contains vital facilities such as restrooms and a kitchen. This area is functional and unobtrusive, ensuring operations run smoothly without disturbing the peace expected at a retreat. The arrangement allows guests to move freely through the different spaces, enhancing their overall experience.



An upper meditation zone can be accessed via an exterior stair, providing a separate space that encourages quiet reflection. This zone connects visually with the central studio, thanks to a double-height layout that opens up views of the hills and valleys beyond. These sightlines are thoughtfully framed to foster a deeper engagement with the outdoor landscape, reinforcing the connection between the built environment and nature.



Materiality

The primary structural material used is cross-laminated timber (CLT), which combines durability with an inviting aesthetic. This choice reflects an emphasis on sustainability and the use of eco-friendly materials. The roof integrates thin-film photovoltaic cells, supporting energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.



The design of the Vale de Moses Yoga House focuses on the relationship between space and nature. Its layout and material choices offer a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Wooden elements on the facade add texture and warmth, blending the building with the natural surroundings. This thoughtful approach invites visitors to find peace and mindfulness in their surroundings.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy