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Moss Roof and Timber Frame Structure for a Serene Wellness Space

Authors:
Ciro Romer, Michal Strupiński
Moss Roof and Timber Frame Structure for a Serene Wellness Space

Project in-detail

A moss roof enhances the timber frame structure, creating a calming environment that supports wellness activities through sustainable design and ample natural light.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber frame design minimizes reliance on composite materials for structural integrity.
02
Large corner windows provide panoramic views and enhance natural lighting throughout the space.
03
A moss roof contributes to temperature regulation and reduces heat stress on the building.
04
Rainwater collection integrates a dual-stage filtration system for sustainability.
05
The layout promotes communal interaction while maintaining privacy for wellness practices.

The Yoga House - Shala on the Hill offers a calm environment focused on wellness practices, integrated into a natural landscape. The design emphasizes a connection between indoor and outdoor areas, creating a space conducive to relaxation and reflection. The layout prioritizes accessibility, enabling users to move easily between the yoga studio and essential facilities like changing rooms and kitchenettes.

Structural Framework

The building's construction relies on a wood timber frame system. This framework consists of sequential frames arranged in both horizontal and vertical directions. By using a central tension cable, the design minimizes the need for composite Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), allowing for larger spans without compromising stability. This approach results in a solid and visually appealing structure.

Spatial Organization

The design organizes the facility around a central axis that links various areas. The yoga studio features large corner windows that provide sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. This design choice invites natural light and creates a peaceful atmosphere, promoting mindfulness and calm during practice. Essential amenities are strategically placed near the yoga space, fostering a sense of community and ease of movement for users.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design. The building uses passive ventilation methods combined with low heat floor heating systems for comfort in colder months. A rainwater collection system, supported by a dual-stage filtration process, reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact. These features enable the building to function more independently while supporting eco-friendly principles.

Design Details

The roof is designed with a cantilevered structure, featuring a moss roof that aids in temperature control and reduces heat stress. Sun blinds are integrated to improve energy efficiency by limiting heat gain. Additionally, the low-impact foundation carefully preserves the site’s natural features. Each of these elements works together to create a cohesive and functional space, emphasizing the importance of both practicality and tranquility.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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