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Rainwater Collecting Yoga Retreat with Timber and Cork Integration

Author:
Rodrigo Seara
Rainwater Collecting Yoga Retreat with Timber and Cork Integration
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Constructed from wood and cork, this elevated yoga retreat incorporates rainwater collection and expansive glass façades, creating a tranquil environment for meditation and wellness amidst a scenic cliffside setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Compromised of wood and cork, the structure enhances thermal comfort while minimizing environmental impact.
02
Rainwater collection systems are integrated to promote water self-sufficiency for on-site needs.
03
Expansive glass façades provide unobstructed views and invite natural light throughout the interior.
04
The elevation above the ground prevents water infiltration and enhances the connection with the surrounding landscape.
05
Flowing layouts facilitate both individual reflection and communal activities within the retreat.

The Yoga House on a Cliff is positioned to provide a wellness space surrounded by natural beauty. Elevated above the landscape, it offers a peaceful environment for yoga and meditation, promoting a deeper connection with nature. The overall design emphasizes openness and clarity, allowing for a strong interaction between indoor spaces and the outdoors.

Design Concept

The design focuses on creating a strong relationship between interior and exterior environments. Large glass panels are prominent in the façade, allowing natural light to flood the interior while providing wide-ranging views of the scenic landscape. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic qualities of the space but also fosters a close interaction with nature, encouraging mindfulness in users and creating an atmosphere conducive to relaxation.

Materiality

Materials used in the construction include wood and cork, both selected for their sustainability and environmental friendliness. The timber framework provides strength and warmth, creating a welcoming ambiance. Cork is utilized for insulation, contributing to energy efficiency and enhancing comfort within the space. These choices reflect a commitment to environmentally responsible design and demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between architecture and its natural context.

Functional Layout

The layout is thoughtfully organized to support both individual reflection and group activities. It includes a dedicated yoga room, locker facilities, and leisure spaces that encourage movement and interaction. This configuration fosters connection among users while providing essential amenities. The design integrates natural ventilation, ensuring good air quality and enhancing overall comfort, which aligns with the goal of creating a wellness-centric environment.

Sustainable Features

Renewable energy sources are woven into the design. Solar panels are positioned on the roof to collect energy from the sun, helping the building operate efficiently. A rainwater collection system further supports the sustainability goals of the project, allowing for the reuse of water and lessening the overall environmental impact. These features highlight a dedication to energy efficiency and responsible resource use in a contemporary setting.

Light streams through the timber-framed openings, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages both relaxation and reflection.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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