Architecture project // Rammed Earth Forms and Dry Stone Walls Enhancing Valley Retreat

Rammed Earth Forms and Dry Stone Walls Enhancing Valley Retreat

Authors:

Maxime Terriac, Pauline Lotz, Carole Dureau

Crafted from rammed earth and dry stone walls, the retreat offers a serene environment for yoga practitioners, designed to harmonize with its valley setting while promoting a strong connection to nature.

5 key facts about this project

Rammed earth walls feature rounded openings for natural light and ventilation.

Dry stone construction integrates the building into the landscape, ensuring stability and low maintenance.

Design incorporates terraces to follow the natural slope, enhancing views and accessibility.

The yoga room's angled walls create framed vistas of the surrounding valley.

Pathways connect functional areas, promoting movement and interaction with nature.

General keywords

vale de moses yoga retreat wellness nature local materials portugal private sustainability biodiversity

Project specific keywords

rammed earth dry stone angled walls pathways terraced levels

The Yoga House, set in the peaceful landscape of Vale de Moses, is designed as a retreat space for those seeking tranquility through yoga practice. The building promotes a strong connection to the natural environment, allowing users to feel at one with the outdoors. The main concept focuses on creating a harmonious and reflective space that supports well-being through thoughtful organization, suitable materials, and spatial relationships.

FUNCTIONAL ZONING

The layout of the Yoga House consists of three main areas: the kitchen, bathrooms, and the yoga room. Each section is placed carefully to follow the natural slope of the land. The bathrooms are located at the highest point, offering privacy and panoramic views. The kitchen occupies a lower level, making it easier for users to access. The yoga room is situated at the lowest level, facing the valley, which enhances the experience of practicing yoga with beautiful scenery.

MATERIALITY AND DESIGN ELEMENTS

The choice of materials is important in shaping the character of the Yoga House. Local dry stone is used for the load-bearing walls, creating a strong and stable structure that connects well with the site. In the kitchen and bathrooms, rammed earth features rounded openings that allow natural light and fresh air to enter. This choice helps to make the interior spaces both pleasant and functional while respecting the environment.

ARCHITECTURAL EXPRESSION

The design includes outdoor pathways that link the main areas, inviting movement and interaction with nature. The yoga room has angled walls that frame lovely views of the valley, making each yoga session feel immersive. Dividing the structure into smaller components helps maintain a human scale. This thoughtful approach creates an inviting ambiance without overwhelming the surrounding landscape.

The design respects the environment, guiding users to a space defined by calmness and reflection. The careful arrangement of spaces and the use of local materials come together to form a retreat that is both cohesive and distinctive within its natural setting.