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Natural Light Filtered Through Wood and Glass in a Tranquil Retreat

Authors:
Bárbara Díaz Gallardo, María Gallego Pérez, Cristina Jiménez Egido
Natural Light Filtered Through Wood and Glass in a Tranquil Retreat
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Filtered light and shadows dance through a double-skin structure of glass and wood, creating an immersive environment for yoga and meditation in a serene hillside retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Filtered light creates dynamic patterns within the Yoga Shala.
02
The design incorporates a zen garden with meditation nests.
03
Rainwater collection systems support the surrounding landscape.
04
Wooden slats simulate being under tree canopies.
05
Natural ventilation aligns with wind patterns for comfort.

The New Yoga House is located in the peaceful setting of Vale de Moses and serves as a dedicated space for yoga and meditation. The design aims to create a rich experience that connects users to the natural world. By incorporating elements like natural light, wind, and rain, the concept emphasizes the practice of Shinrin-Yoku, or forest bathing, promoting a deep sense of well-being.

Environmental Integration

The design carefully blends with the surrounding nature. It features a natural pathway that links different parts of the retreat, allowing users to enjoy open views of the landscape. The Yoga Shala is positioned to face the slope, ensuring both comfort and an enhanced relationship with the outdoor environment.

Spatial Organization

Functionality and calmness are prioritized in the layout. The support band, which includes important facilities such as toilets, changing rooms, and a kitchen, is placed to minimize disruptions during yoga and meditation sessions. This thoughtful arrangement provides privacy for users, aligning with the retreat's purpose of fostering deep personal reflection.

Material and Light Interaction

A key feature of the Yoga Shala is the use of a double skin made of glass and wooden slats. This design allows light to filter in while maintaining visibility to the outside. The changing patterns of light and shadow throughout the day contribute to the atmosphere in the space, making it more inviting for meditation and practice.

Sustainability and Water Management

The project incorporates sustainable practices, such as a rainwater collection system and natural water filtration for irrigation. These features not only support local ecology but also reinforce the connection between the building and its environment. They ensure the landscape remains vibrant, honoring the natural characteristics of the site.

An important detail is the zen garden, designed as a space where users can find solitude and reflect. The garden features thoughtful resting areas that keep users engaged with the natural surroundings, enhancing their overall experience at the retreat.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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