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Mountain Larch and Glass Retreat Embracing Cliffside Views for Mindfulness Practices

Author:
Aleksandr Danielyan
Mountain Larch and Glass Retreat Embracing Cliffside Views for Mindfulness Practices

Project in-detail

Nestled against a cliff, the building showcases a harmonious blend of mountain larch and expansive glass that captures breathtaking views, creating an immersive retreat dedicated to yoga and mindfulness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design integrates a Zen garden, promoting outdoor mindfulness and enhancing the overall wellness experience.
02
Cliffside positioning maximizes panoramic views while minimizing land disturbance.
03
Timber framework includes mountain larch for durability and aesthetic warmth, emphasizing sustainability.
04
Large glass panels are strategically placed to allow natural light, creating a sense of openness and connection to nature.
05
Biomass heating system enhances energy efficiency, supporting the building's sustainable ethos.
The Yoga House on a Cliff represents a thoughtful exploration of architecture aimed at enhancing human experience through a harmonious interaction with nature. This project embodies the essence of wellness and mindfulness, serving as a dedicated space for yoga and meditative practices. The design prioritizes the individual's connection with the environment, creating a setting that fosters relaxation and introspection. With its serene location on a cliff, the architecture capitalizes on the scenic views and natural elements surrounding the site, thereby enriching the users’ experience through the visual and sensory engagement with the landscape.

Functionally, the Yoga House is designed to cater to a variety of activities related to wellness. The upper level features an open-plan space that allows for group yoga sessions, workshops, and communal gatherings. This configuration supports flexibility and adaptability, accommodating different group sizes and activities. The ground level integrates essential facilities such as changing rooms and a kitchen area, ensuring that the flow of movement remains intuitive and accessible for users. The carefully curated site plan encourages interaction with the natural world, with pathways leading through gardens and mediation areas that invite users to linger and engage more deeply with their surroundings.

Key architectural features distinguish the Yoga House from conventional designs. The emphasis on large glass panels is notable, providing panoramic views and inviting abundant natural light into the interiors. This design decision reinforces the connection to nature, allowing practitioners to feel as if they are a part of the environment rather than isolated from it. The building’s elevations showcase a combination of wooden materials and sloped roofs that echo the natural topography of the cliff it rests upon, further enhancing the sense of place.

Material selection plays an important role in the project, with a commitment to sustainability and durability evident throughout. Mountain larch wood is primarily utilized for the facade, offering a warm aesthetic that integrates well with the surroundings. This choice not only contributes to the visual appeal but also supports the structure's longevity. Plywood is employed for flooring and wall applications, maintaining a cohesive design language while providing quality performance. The integration of mineral insulation reflects an awareness of energy efficiency, ensuring comfortable interior conditions without over-reliance on external heating and cooling sources.

The architectural design expertly combines functional space with aesthetic sensibility, thereby creating a balanced environment dedicated to physical and mental wellness. A unique aspect of the project is its inclusion of community-oriented spaces that foster social interaction and shared experiences. This communal aspect is complemented by an inviting Zen garden designed to promote mindfulness and serve as an outdoor retreat for users, enabling them to practice tranquility amidst nature.

The structural approach of the Yoga House maintains a robust framework using wooden trusses, facilitating strong support while preserving an airy, open feel within the spaces. The thoughtful consideration of various design elements ensures that all components work together cohesively, enhancing the overall user experience. Energy systems integrated within the design, such as solar panels and biomass heating, further reflect a dedication to sustainability, making the house a self-sufficient entity that minimizes its environmental impact.

Overall, the Yoga House on a Cliff stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to create spaces that nourish well-being and encourage a mindful relationship with nature. Through its clever design, materiality, and functional planning, the project achieves an atmosphere of serenity and connection to the environment. For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas that shaped this project, further details are available for review, enhancing the understanding of this unique architectural endeavor.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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