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Natural Light-Filled Retreat with Siltstone Walls and Regional Timber

Authors:
Sergio Esquinca, Eduardo Robles, Adrian Salinas
Natural Light-Filled Retreat with Siltstone Walls and Regional Timber

Project in-detail

With siltstone walls that provide thermal regulation and expansive glass openings that immerse the interior in natural light, the Yoga House serves as a tranquil retreat for yoga practitioners seeking reconnection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Thermal wall made of siltstone regulates indoor temperature.
02
180-degree openings maximize natural light and forest views.
03
Main garden includes a cantilever deck extending into the forest.
04
Utilizes regional timber to minimize environmental impact.
05
Design influenced by the concept of forest bathing, promoting wellness.

The Yoga House is located in the Vale de Moses forest, designed as a space for yoga practitioners and those seeking a sense of calm. The concept is influenced by the idea of "Shirin-Yoku," or forest bathing, which connects people to nature for well-being. The architecture blends with the landscape, emphasizing sustainability and creating an environment that encourages mindfulness.

Spatial Design

The space within the Yoga House is organized to create a smooth flow for users. Each area leads naturally into the next, culminating in a central yoga studio that serves as the heart of the building. This layout supports movement and promotes a sense of community, making it a welcoming environment for practice and reflection.

Natural Light and Views

Large openings are a defining feature of the design, maximizing the entry of natural light and offering expansive views of the forest. These openings provide 180-degree sightlines and are carefully positioned based on the building's spatial hierarchy. Each area is designed to receive adequate light throughout the day, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.

Material Selection

The materials chosen for the Yoga House reflect a commitment to sustainability and a connection to the environment. Siltstone is used for the mass thermal wall, helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures by absorbing and releasing heat from the sun. Regional timber is incorporated in the structure, reinforcing the relationship between the building and its natural setting. This thoughtful selection of materials minimizes environmental impact and supports the building's overall design concept.

Outdoor Integration

A key aspect of the design is the main garden, extending the interior experience into the outside world. This garden is framed by the natural surroundings and features a cantilevered wooden deck that reaches into the forest. This outdoor space promotes relaxation and contemplation, aligning with the focus on wellness that defines the Yoga House.

The design culminates in large openings that frame views of the forest, inviting nature into the interior while enhancing the overall user experience.

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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
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