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Natural Stone Facade Enhances Tranquility in Valley Retreat

Author:
Bryan Dunkelberger
Natural Stone Facade Enhances Tranquility in Valley Retreat

Project in-detail

With a natural stone facade that integrates seamlessly into the valley landscape, the design fosters a calm and inviting atmosphere, serving as a dedicated space for yoga practitioners to connect with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural stone facade designed to blend with the valley topography.
02
Open-air skylight enhances natural light and visual connection to the sky.
03
Movable glass panels create dynamic interactions with the surrounding landscape.
04
Wood fins provide sun shading while framing views of the valley.
05
Grey water system supports irrigation for the garden areas.

The Yoga House on a Cliff is situated in the peaceful environment of Vale De Moses. The building serves as a space for yoga practice and meditation, designed to enhance the connection between the individual and nature. The overall concept revolves around breathing, creating an environment that invites both tranquility and mindfulness. It is a place where practitioners can immerse themselves in their practice while feeling grounded by the surrounding landscape.

Architecture Concept

The design centers on the process of breathing, reflected in how visitors experience the space. A large stone stairway acts as the main entrance, leading guests from the warm hillside into the coolness of the building’s interior. This transition symbolizes the act of inhaling, preparing individuals for their yoga practice. The pathway is more than just functional; it sets the tone for the calm atmosphere that follows.

Natural Light and Sustainability

Natural light plays a crucial role within the Yoga House. An open-air skylight allows sunlight to enter, creating bright spaces and a connection to the outside. Solar panels on the roof provide energy for the building, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. A grey water system is included as well, supporting the gardens around the structure. This aspect reinforces the building's connection to its setting, helping to maintain the local environment.

Interior Design Features

Inside, the studio offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that supports relaxation. Long wood fins frame views of the valley, akin to the tall trees in the area, while providing shade from direct sunlight. A broad panel of movable glass opens up the space, ensuring that the natural landscape remains a part of the user’s experience. This design choice invites guests to feel connected to nature even while indoors, enhancing their yoga practice.

Materials and Textural Connection

The design incorporates natural stone for the stairway and facade, anchoring the building within the specific landscape of the valley. Poured concrete forms the primary structure, while an applied stone veneer adds texture and ties the building to its surroundings. Wood framing is used throughout the interior, reinforcing the connection between inside and outside.

The spacious practice area allows for expansive views, encouraging users to breathe deeply and connect with both the land and their practice.

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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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