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Rammed Earth and Natural Light Combine in a Serene Wellness Facility

Authors:
Océane Leprince, Shanice Aka-adjo, Olga Golliet
Rammed Earth and Natural Light Combine in a Serene Wellness Facility

Project in-detail

Employing rammed earth and abundant natural light, the design fosters a harmonious connection with nature while serving as a dedicated space for wellness and mindfulness practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide thermal mass, enhancing energy efficiency.
02
Large skylights optimize natural light and create a sense of openness.
03
A meditation pond is integrated into the landscape for tranquil engagement.
04
Cross-ventilation design reduces reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
05
Curvilinear forms promote a fluid relationship between interior and exterior spaces.

The architectural project "YUJ" is a contemporary wellness center designed to create a space that emphasizes the union between individuals and their natural surroundings. Situated in a serene landscape, the project serves multiple functions, including yoga practice, meditation, and communal gathering, all while encouraging interactions with nature and mindfulness.

The design encapsulates the concept of "Yuj," derived from Sanskrit, which signifies the importance of connection and unity. The architectural layout promotes a sequence of experiences that guide individuals through a journey of personal well-being and reflection. The building’s curvilinear forms naturally integrate with the surrounding landscape, enhancing the architectural narrative and fostering a sense of harmony.

Unique Design Approaches and Features

One of the standout features of the YUJ project is its emphasis on natural integration. The architectural design heavily incorporates large windows and skylights that allow for ample natural light, creating a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This openness helps to cultivate a welcoming atmosphere that contrasts with more traditional, enclosed wellness facilities.

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of the design. YUJ employs eco-friendly materials such as raw clay bricks, rammed earth, and OSB panels, selected for their environmental performance and aesthetic appeal. The structure also integrates a rainwater harvesting system alongside solar panels, enhancing resource conservation and energy efficiency. Natural ventilation is achieved through strategically placed openings, contributing to a comfortable environment without reliance on mechanical systems.

Community Spaces and Functionality

The layout of YUJ promotes social interaction alongside personal well-being. The central yoga room is spacious and adaptable, designed to accommodate various activities and group sizes, while support spaces such as changing rooms and a cafeteria enhance user experience. Outdoor components, including a Zen garden and meditation pond, provide tranquil environments for reflection and mindfulness practices.

Overall, YUJ represents a thoughtful approach to architectural design in the context of wellness and community. The unique integration of sustainability with a design that celebrates natural elements distinguishes this project from others in its category. For more intricate details on the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, the presentation of YUJ offers further insights into its comprehensive design philosophy and execution.

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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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