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Natural Light and Local Wood in a Serene Yoga Retreat

Authors:
Su Jin Lee, Jong Won Choi
Natural Light and Local Wood in a Serene Yoga Retreat
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Clerestory windows illuminate a spacious yoga studio crafted from locally sourced wood, seamlessly connecting practitioners with the surrounding forest while embracing sustainable design principles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Clerestory windows reduce glare while maximizing natural light in the yoga studio.
02
Locally sourced wood enhances environmental sustainability and connects with the natural setting.
03
Rainwater collection systems support water reuse for non-potable applications.
04
Roof angles are optimized for efficient photovoltaic panel placement.
05
Generous openings create unobstructed views of the surrounding forest landscape.

Yoga in the Woods is designed to create a calm space for yoga practice, integrated within a forested area. The project emphasizes a connection to nature, fostering a sense of wellness and mindfulness for its users. Using geometries, the design features high ceilings and clerestory windows that maximize daylight and enhance the environment suitable for relaxation and meditation.

Design Elements

The high ceiling in the yoga studio gives a feeling of spaciousness, allowing light to flood the area. Clerestory windows are placed to ensure ample natural light while reducing glare, making it easier to focus during practice. This thoughtful approach to natural lighting creates a welcoming atmosphere that promotes tranquility.

Integration with Nature

The building's layout focuses on connecting with the surrounding landscape. Large openings throughout the design offer clear views of the forest, bridging indoor and outdoor experiences. This arrangement not only encourages users to engage more with the natural environment but also enhances the benefits of yoga practice.

Sustainability Features

Sustainable practices are a core aspect of the design. A rainwater collection system has been integrated to allow for the reuse of water in various functions within the building. Additionally, the roof is designed to support photovoltaic panels, which generate electricity. These features contribute to the self-sufficiency of the building and highlight a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Material Usage

Locally sourced wood is used as the main material in the structure, emphasizing its connection to the surrounding area. This choice not only supports sustainability by reducing transportation but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The natural tones of the wood enhance the overall experience, connecting users with nature inside the yoga studio.

Large windows framed by natural wood open up to the forest, inviting the outdoors in and creating a space that feels fluid and connected to the environment.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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