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Monolithic Roof and Green Façade Crafted from Sustainable Timber for a Yoga Retreat

Author:
Marielena Oetken
Monolithic Roof and Green Façade Crafted from Sustainable Timber for a Yoga Retreat

Project in-detail

A green façade and a monolithic roof of locally sourced timber elevate this yoga retreat, seamlessly integrating into the forested landscape while providing spaces for meditation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure utilizes a monolithic roof design that extends outward to create sheltered outdoor spaces.
02
Locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a durable, weather-resistant surface while blending with the natural environment.
04
Large glass openings strategically positioned to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding forest.
05
The yoga retreat layout focuses on communal spaces, promoting interaction while maintaining areas for personal reflection.

### Project Overview

Located in Latvia, the yoga house, "The Other Side of Green," is designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, prioritizing tranquility and a strong connection to the forest landscape. Situated a short distance from the beach, the single-story structure serves as a retreat focused on relaxation and mindfulness.

### Spatial Integration and Materiality

The architectural form of the yoga house features a monolithic roof that extends outward, creating a protective canopy that enhances the interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces. Constructed primarily from sustainably sourced wood, the light frame promotes open, airy environments, while large glass doors and windows provide uninterrupted views of the surrounding nature. The integration of a circular window adds visual interest and invites natural light into the interior, contributing to the building's overall ambiance.

### Sustainability and Landscape Design

The project emphasizes sustainable practices, utilizing local materials and reducing energy consumption through thoughtful design elements. The extensive glass façade maximizes natural light, minimizing dependence on artificial lighting. Surrounding the structure, landscaping includes natural stone pathways that guide visitors to the entrance, ensuring the preservation of existing flora while enhancing the connection between the building and its environment. This strategy supports biodiversity and promotes ecological health, integrating the yoga house within the local ecosystem.

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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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