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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
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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.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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